Buy Online
GET STARTED

Fruit Flies

Appearance and Size Facts

  • Also called pomace flies or vinegar flies
  • Yellowish-brown color with red eyes and black markings on the abdomen
  • They have wings that fold flat over the body
  • Size: Adult female fruit flies are slightly larger, around 1/8 inch in length, while males are roughly 1/10 inch in length
  • Usually carried on fruits and vegetables

Behavior and Habitat of Fruit Flies

Fruit flies are usually carried on fruits and vegetables. They are also called vinegar flies since they often infest facilities producing vinegar. Fruit flies lay their eggs near the surface of fermenting foods or other moist organic materials. Upon emerging, the tiny larvae continue to feed near the surface of the fermenting mass. This surface-feeding characteristic of the larvae is significant in that damaged or over-ripened portions of fruits and vegetables can be cut away without having to discard the remainder for fear of retaining any developing larvae. In some cases, fruit fly infestations may occur in sink or tub drains where a large buildup of organic material has occurred and moisture levels are suitable for fly development. Fruit flies are common in homes, restaurants, supermarkets, and anywhere else food is served. Tomatoes, melons, squash, grapes, and other perishable items brought in from the garden are often the cause of an infestation developing indoors. Fruit flies are also attracted to rotting bananas, potatoes, onions, and other non-refrigerated produce purchased at the grocery store. It is common to see infestations in dumpsters.

Image of a magnifying glass

Signs of Infestation of Fruit Flies

Fruit flies are a potential heath concern since they are found in unsanitary conditions. Fruit flies, when swatted at, will fly away immediately, as opposed to humpbacked flies, which will run or scuttle when swatted at.

An illustration representing a warning sign for bug infestation

Tips for Prevention of Fruit Flies

Fruit flies are best prevented through good sanitation practices, such as removing spoiled or rotten fruits and vegetables immediately to an exterior trash can and keeping kitchen surfaces clean, free of food spillage and debris.

A cropped image of a pencil

Fruit Fly Gallery

Photograph of fruit fly
Photograph of fruit fly number 2
Photograph of fruit fly number 3

Latest Pest & Termite Control News

Subterranean Termite Control in West Palm Beach: Sentricon Colony Elimination

Subterranean Termite Control in West Palm Beach: Sentricon Colony Elimination

Here in Palm Beach County and our northern neighbors in the Treasure Coast, including subterranean termite prevention and control as a part of your general home maintenance plan is essential. This is especially true in West Palm Beach, which was named in the “Top 10 Worst Termite...

Read More ›
New Year Pest Control Resolutions for Your South Florida Home

New Year Pest Control Resolutions for Your South Florida Home

A new year means new pests are trying to call your South Florida house their home. This year, along with new year’s resolutions to improve your health, finances, attitude, and whatever other things you want to change in your life, make this year the year you keep your South Florida home...

Read More ›
Expert Advice on Protecting Your Home and Lawn from Pests this Winter

Expert Advice on Protecting Your Home and Lawn from Pests this Winter

Living in South Florida means rodents, ants, and other pests don't take the winters off! Meanwhile, your lawn needs less watering and mowing during the winter months and is susceptible to various diseases such as brown patch fungus. Your lawn in winter While we’re outdoors, let’s talk...

Read More ›