Fruit fly

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in homes, grocery stores, and restaurants near ripening, fermenting, or decaying fruit and vegetable matter.

Diet & Feeding

Mainly feeds on the yeast and fungi growing on overripe fruit, decaying organic matter, and fermenting liquids like vinegar or wine.

Behavior Patterns

Fruit flies are highly active during the day and are attracted to the smell of fermentation; they have a very rapid life cycle, developing from egg to adult in about 8 to 10 days.

Risks & Benefits

While they do not bite or sting, they are considered pests because they can contaminate food with bacteria and pathogens. In science, they are highly beneficial as a model organism for genetic and developmental research.

Identified on: 1/8/2026