Fruit Fly

Natural Habitat

Commonly found near ripening or decaying fruit, vegetables, and other organic matter in homes, grocery stores, and food processing facilities.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae and adults primarily feed on fermenting organic matter, yeast, and sugars found in overripe fruits and vegetables.

Behavior Patterns

Fruit flies are known for their rapid reproduction cycle and are highly attracted to the smell of fermentation. They are most active during the day and are prolific breeders near moist organic waste.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or sting but are considered a nuisance pest that can contaminate food with bacteria and pathogens. In science, they are highly beneficial as a primary model organism for genetic and developmental research.

Identified on: 1/14/2026