Difference Between Fruit Flies and Fruit Fly Gnats

"Fruit fly gnats" is a term some people use for fruit flies. They are small flies that measure approximately 3 to 4 mm in length and are tan or light yellow in color. Fruit flies typically have red eyes.

Fruit flies reach the peak of their population during the summer, and are usually found in kitchens and garbage areas of homes. Fruit flies develop through a series of four stages. Females lay their eggs on fermenting fruits or vegetables, in sewers, drains or other suitable locations. These eggs hatch into larvae within 30 hours. Larvae grow and molt, then go through a pupal stage, emerging as adults within 10 days.

Fruit flies are genetically simple and reproduce rapidly, making them formidable pests and excellent subjects for genetic studies.