Fruit fly

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in homes, greenhouses, and food markets near ripening or fermenting organic matter.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae and adults feed on decaying fruit and organic material, specifically the yeasts and bacteria growing on them.

Behavior Patterns

Active year-round indoors; they have a very fast life cycle, developing from egg to adult in about 8-10 days in warm conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest in homes. They can potentially contaminate food with bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella from rotting surfaces, though they do not bite.

Identified on: 5/4/2026