Fruit flies are tiny pests that can become a disturbance in your home. Understanding what attracts them and how to keep them away is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy living space.
What Attracts Fruit Flies?
Fruit flies are primarily attracted to ripe or rotting fruits and vegetables. They are drawn to the smell of fermentation, which is produced by the natural decay of organic matter. This is why you often find them buzzing around bananas, apples, or tomatoes that have been left out for too long. Fruit flies are also attracted to sweet substances, alcohol, and even drains that contain organic residue.
These tiny insects have a strong sense of smell, allowing them to detect food sources from considerable distances. Once they find a suitable place to lay their eggs, a female fruit fly can lay up to 500 eggs, leading to a rapid increase in their population.
What Do Flies Eat?
Flies, including fruit flies, have a diverse diet. While fruit flies prefer fermenting fruits, other types of flies are attracted to a variety of organic materials. House flies, for example, feed on decaying matter, including garbage, faeces, and dead animals. Some flies, like crane flies, consume nectar and other plant-based substances.
How Long Do Fruit Flies Live?
The lifespan of a fruit fly is relatively short, typically lasting about 40 to 50 days. However, during this time, they can reproduce rapidly, making them a persistent problem if not dealt with promptly. House flies, on the other hand, live for about 15 to 30 days indoors, depending on the environment. Both types of flies can cause significant annoyance and potential health risks if they invade your living space.
What Attracts Flies?
Flies are attracted to many substances, depending on the species. Fruit flies, as mentioned earlier, are attracted to fermenting fruits and vegetables. Some flies are even attracted to human sweat, which explains why they may be drawn to you.
Myths and Facts About Flies
| Myth | Fact |
| Flies live for only a few hours. | Flies can live up to 30 days, depending on the species and environment. |
| Flies are attracted only to garbage and filth. | Flies are attracted to many substances, including food, sweat, and decaying matter. |
| Flies can transmit diseases only through bites. | Flies can spread diseases by contaminating surfaces and food with their feet and mouthparts. |
| Flies lay eggs only on decaying organic matter. | Flies can lay eggs in various places, including clean surfaces if food is present. |
| All flies have the same diet. | Different species of flies have different diets, ranging from decaying matter to nectar. |
