Entomology
Fruit flies (Drosophila) are small flying insects known for their attraction to ripening fruits and vegetables. Their basic anatomy includes:
- Small body size (about 1/8 inch long)
- Distinctive red/orange eyes
- Tan or light brown body color
- Two pairs of wings
- Sponging-lapping mouthparts
Reproduction Cycle
Aphids have a complex life cycle that can include both sexual and asexual reproduction:
- Egg: Can hatch within 30 hour. however colder climates can slow it down to 4 days
- Larva: This stage can last 5 to 6 days depending on available food
- Pupa: This stage last about 5 days
- Adult: Living for an average of 50 days laying on average 500 eggs
Social Aspects
Fruit fly are communal insect communicating with pheromones social behaviors including:
- Communal egg nesting
- Male courting behavior
- Passing on knowledhe of threats and nesting sites
- When in isolation exhibit signs of depression such as lethargy and over-eating(study by Rockefeller University)
Treatment Options
- Clean surfaces and remove and dead or rotting debris from area
- Commerical sticky fly traps
- Apply insecticidal soap
- Use neem oil
- Plant companion plants (mint, lavender, or rosemary)
