Fruit fly larva / Maggot

Natural Habitat

Typically found in moist environments containing decaying organic matter, such as fermenting fruit or trash cans.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on fungi, bacteria, and yeast within fermenting fruit and other decomposing organic materials.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae emerge from eggs within 24 hours burrow into their food source to feed. They undergo three stages (instars) before crawling to a dry surface to pupate.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans but can be a nuisance in kitchens. In a laboratory setting, they are invaluable model organisms for genetic and developmental research.

Identified on: 1/12/2026