Fruit fly (or Gnat)
Scientific Name: Drosophila melanogaster (approximate)
Order & Family: Order: Diptera; Family: Drosophilidae (or Sciaridae/Psychodidae)
Size: 1 to 4 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors near overripe fruit, drains, or moist houseplants; outdoors near decaying organic matter.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on microbial growth (yeast/bacteria) on fermenting fruit or decaying organic matter; adults feed on liquid sugary substances.
Behavior Patterns
Attracted to fermented odors and moisture. They have a very rapid life cycle (about 8-10 days) and are most active during the day.
Risks & Benefits
Primarily a nuisance pest; they can potentially transfer bacteria from unsanitary surfaces to food. They do not bite humans.
Identified on: 4/4/2026