Fruit Fly

Commonly found in residential kitchens, restaurants, and grocery stores where fermenting organic matter is present.

Larvae and adults feed on microorganisms (like yeast) and sugars from overripe or rotting fruits and vegetables.

They have a very fast life cycle, maturing from egg to adult in about 8-10 days. They are most active during the day and are highly attracted to the smell of fermentation.

They do not bite or sting but are considered a nuisance pest. Risk: They can cross-contaminate food with bacteria and pathogens. Benefit: They are a vital model organism in genetic and biological research.