How Fruit Flies Are Born
WouterIf you have a problem with fruit flies, the first step is to eliminate breeding sites. Fruit flies prefer to breed on decaying organic material and overripe fruit. Since their eggs are nearly invisible, they cannot be seen, so it is essential to wash produce thoroughly. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to remove these annoying pests.
The fruit fly is born when its mother lays her eggs in an area where the babies can feed. These fertile eggs are about an eighth of an inch long, with a red eye and a tan or black front. After hatching, the pupae develop into the adult fruit fly within the pupal case. This pupal stage is similar to a cocoon or chrysalis.
Once the fruit fly emerges from the pupae stage, it is capable of reproducing rapidly. When given the opportunity, it will lay about 500 eggs. In less than a week, it will complete the entire life cycle. The adult fruit fly will live for about a month and a half.
Fruit flies are a highly valuable research subject. Their ability to reproduce so rapidly makes them a valuable resource. In a week, the female fruit fly can lay hundreds of eggs. They lay their eggs on food that is fermenting and contains rotting ingredients. The larvae will feed on these foods and grow into adult fruit flies.
