Fruit Flies

Physical Characteristics
Adults are about 2-3mm long and usually have red eyes; their bodies are tan to light brown.

Habitat
Fruit flies are common in homes, restaurants, supermarkets and wherever else food is allowed to rot and ferment. Fruit flies can be a problem year round, but are especially common during late summer/fall because they are attracted to ripened fruits and vegetables. They also breed in drains, garbage, empty bottles and cans, mops and cleaning rags.

Life Cycle
They lay their eggs near the surface of fermenting foods or other moist organic materials. Upon emerging, the tiny larvae will continue to feed near the surface of the food source. The reproductive potential of fruit flies is enormous; given the opportunity, they will lay about 500 eggs. The entire lifecycle from egg to adult can be completed in about 1 week.

Damage and Disease Risks
Fruit flies are primarily a nuisance pest. However, they also have the potential to contaminate food with bacterial and other disease- producing organisms. There are no damaging factors relating to fruit flies due to the fact they feed on damaged and rotting food materials.

Prevention and Treatment
Aanteaters Integrated Pest Management program is the first step in eliminating your fruit fly infestation. Sanitation is critical in fruit fly control.