Fruit Flies vs Drain Flies: 4 Differences You Didn’t Know
Fruit flies and drain flies are small insects that usually appear in houses, particularly around the kitchen and bathroom. They may seem similar at first glance, but they are really distinct when it comes to how they live, diet, and origin.
This blog will discuss the major differences between fruit flies vs drain flies and how you can prevent them from coming back.
What are Drain Flies?
Drain flies are small insects that inhabit and breed in damp areas. You will find them primarily near drains in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and around floor drains. They appear soft and fuzzy, with a body length ranging from 1/16 to 1/4 inch. They can be pale gray to black in color.
Their larvae develop in the slimy layer that exists in drains and traps. The slime is rich in algae, bacteria, and fungus, which they feed on. These flies also reproduce in other filthy or wet places such as leaking sewer pipes, clogged garbage pails, dirty plant saucers, and under appliances where there is water present.
Adult drain flies have a lifespan of two weeks, but after they begin breeding, you can spot new flies daily. The complete life cycle from egg to adult may be a week to a month long. Fungus gnats can also exist in drains, so be sure to inspect carefully.
What are Fruit Flies?
Fruit flies are pests that mostly go after fruits and vegetables. They can ruin crops by causing rot and making them change color. These flies lay their eggs inside fruits, close to the surface. You’ll notice small dark patches where they’ve stung the fruit.
They present in most regions of the world such as Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas. The Mediterranean fruit fly are common in Western Australia, whereas other varieties are common in islands such as the Torres Strait.
Fruit Flies vs Drain Flies: 4 Major Differences
1. Size
On first sight, both flies appear identical. But if you observe carefully, you will find the minor difference. Drain flies tend to be a bit smaller in size, typically 1/8 inch. Fruit flies are a bit larger in size.
Their size may be close, but once you know what a fruit fly appears like, it is easy to make out the difference. Fruit flies appear very much like little houseflies but with more transparent body parts.
2. Color
Color can distinguish them from each other. Drain flies are generally dark-colored with black or brown-bodied. When they fly, they appear to be small black spots. Their wings are transparent but dark-striped.
Fruit flies tend to be tan or brown with red eyes. Their most conspicuous feature is red eyes. Others may have alternative eye colors such as brown or white, but those are rare to see.
3. Fur
Drain flies appear fuzzy because their wings have small hairs on them. They have a soft look because of their fur and this is why they are referred to as “moth flies.”
The bodies and wings of fruit flies do not appear hairy. They appear smooth to the naked eye.
4. Diet
What drain flies and fruit flies eat is also different. Drain flies prefer to eat wet, slimy material in drains. They live off the organic debris and flower pollen in standing water. That’s why you find them around sinks and tubs.
Fruit flies, as their name indicates, adore sweet food. They are attracted to fruits, vegetables, juice, soda, and anything sweet. This is why the kitchen is their favorite place to nest.
Fruit Flies vs Drain Flies: Where Do They Live?
Fruit flies reside near their food. They prefer to be near fruits and vegetables and tend to lay eggs in spoiled fruits. This provides their larvae with adequate food when they hatch.
Drain flies reside where there is water and rot. Drain flies breed in slimy places such as drains, stinky garbage cans, and sewer pipes. They even reside in locations where water accumulates or leaks.
Best Tips to Prevent Fruit Flies
Keep Fruits Covered or Refrigerated
Store your vegetables and fruits covered or in the fridge. This retards fruit ripening and deters fruit flies from feeding on food that attracts them.
Clean Kitchen Surfaces Often
Clean your countertops, cabinets, and floors daily. Clean off any spilled food or juice promptly.
Throw Out Rotten Produce
Remove spoiled or rotten fruits and vegetables the moment you spot them. Don’t allow them to rot in the trash for long as well.
Use Fruit Fly Traps
Place a fruit fly trap in your home. It eliminates tiny infestations before the it reaches at alarming levels.
Tips to Prevent Drain Flies
Clean Drains with Natural Mixtures
Use vinegar and baking soda to clean drains often. This helps remove the slime where drain flies breed.
Don’t Pour Grease in Drains
Oil and grease can build up in pipes and attract flies. Throw them in the trash instead.
Use Drain Covers
Put covers over your drains. This stops food bits and hair from getting inside and creating a home for flies.
Use Traps or Call a Pro
Try using traps to catch adult drain flies and other common household flies. If they keep coming back, it might be time to call pest control.
Conclusion
Both fruit flies and drain flies are common home pests. They are small but can cause big annoyances if not handled early. The good news is, you can stop them by keeping your kitchen and drains clean.
Know where they live, what they eat, and how to tell them apart. Once you spot the signs, take action fast to stop them from taking over your space.
FAQs
Q1. Are drain flies harmful to humans?
No, drain flies do not carry diseases. They are annoying but not harmful.
Q2. What attracts fruit flies the most?
Fruit flies are attracted to overripe fruits, sugary drinks, and leftover food.
Q3. Can both fruit flies and drain flies live in the same place?
Yes, they can. Kitchens often have both food and moisture, which attract both types.
Call Professionals To Deal With Fruit Flies and Drain Flies
Having drain flies and fruit flies is not just irritating, but it may welcome several unknown diseases. This is why you should secure yourself and your loved ones from such pests. Let professional pest control like Safe Pest Sol help you in this. Just call us now and book your instant consultation from our experts.