Fruit Fly

Natural Habitat

Worldwide distribution, typically found near rotting fruit, vegetables, or fermenting organic matter in kitchens, gardens, and compost bins.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on the yeast and bacteria found on fermenting organic material, particularly overripe fruits and vegetables.

Behavior Patterns

Fruit flies have a very rapid life cycle (approx. 8-10 days). They are attracted to the scent of fermentation and can lay hundreds of eggs at a time. They are most active during the day.

Risks & Benefits

They are a nuisance pest in homes and can potentially contaminate food with bacteria (like E. coli or Salmonella) picked up from rotting materials. However, they are invaluable to science as model organisms in genetic research.

Identified on: 1/13/2026