Fruit fly; Phorid fly (scuttle fly)

Scientific Name: Diptera (Drosophila spp. or Phoridae spp.)

Order & Family: Order: Diptera; Families: Drosophilidae or Phoridae

Size: 1/16 to 1/8 inch (1.5 to 4 mm)

Fruit fly; Phorid fly (scuttle fly)

Natural Habitat

Indoor and outdoor environments; frequently found near decaying organic matter, drains, overripe fruit, and damp waste areas.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on decaying fruit, vegetation, and organic slime; adults feed on liquid organic matter and sugary secretions.

Behavior Patterns

Fruit flies are attracted to fermentation; Phorid flies are known for their fast, 'scuttling' movement across surfaces rather than flying immediately. They have very rapid reproduction cycles.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest; however, they can mechanically transport bacteria and pathogens (like Salmonella or E. coli) from waste onto food surfaces.

Identified on: 4/16/2026