Killifish

A home-made fly trap thats very effective
A home-made fly trap thats very effective

Media consistancy problems

When preparing food for the flies, it is easy to make it too hard or too soft. This is an advantage of the Sussex media mentioned in Fruit fly food which is right every time. Too wet media can be countered by inserting twisted or screwed kitchen roll or newspaper - both absorbing some moisture and creating walkways for the flies. This can be done in any case, and can increase fly yields if there is often a shortage of pupation sites.

Mold

Mold is scarcely a problem if mold inhibitors are used, but also moldy cultures are usually lightly populated. The flies (and larvae) prevent mold when present in great enough numbers. Using narrow vials with a small surface area certainly helps. When reusing old vials ensure they are cleaned efficiently - failure to do so will also increase the likelihood of mold. A soak in weak bleach can help, but make sure they are rinsed thoroughly afterwards.

Mites

Can destroy a culture. Some merely feed on the media with the flies, but some are parasitic or egg eating. Mites can be treated with Benzyl benzoate soaked bungs, but it is probably easier to discard all cultures and get clean fly stocks. Mite prevention is probably more appropriate, and flies should be housed away from possible contamination, such as in a larger closeable cabinet.

Flightless flies starting to fly

This does happen. Flies can breed with wild flies through thin vial tops (netting for example), or mix with them during handling. Where possible use foam bungs, and try to keep your flies in a closed space away from potential contamination. Once this happens, you really need to replace your stocks and start again.

Fly explosions

Yes they will get out. I use a vinegar trap; vial of vinegar with a perforated tin foil lid. The flies head straight for it.


Fruit fly cultures for sale

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Flightless Melanogaster fruit fly culture. Free shipping. Freshly seeded!

Indianapolis, Indiana, 462**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$20

Flightless Melanogaster fruit fly culture. Free shipping.
Freshly seeded single 32oz culture. Condition is New. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail. Feed ready in 7-10 days from date listed on the culture

"Revolutionize your pet's nutrition with our premium single 32oz producing fruit fly culture! Elevate their diet with a powerhouse of protein-packed goodness that's not only delicious but also nutrient-rich
Experience the convenience of a constant supply of ... more

Fruit Fly Culture (Large Fruit Fly: D. hydei) - 32oz

Shullsburg, Wisconsin, 535**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$10

Looking for a reliable and nutritious feeder insect for your dart frogs, fish, mantids, or juvenile reptiles? Our D. hydei Fruit Fly Cultures are the perfect solution! These small, flightless fruit flies can be easily produced at home offering a continuous supply for 30-50 days!
Product Features:
Species: Drosophila Hydei (D. hydei) Fruit FliesPerfect for: Dart frogs, fish, mantids, juvenile reptiles, and other insectivoresCulture Lifespan: Each culture typically produces fruit flies for ... more

Wingless Fruit Fly Cultures 2 Pack+ 2 Pack of Hydei Total of 4 CULTURES.

Dover, Pennsylvania, 173**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$35

This 2 pack of Hydei Fruit Fly cultures + 2 Pack of Wingless is the perfect addition to any reptile or dart frog owner's collection. These cultures provide a nutritious and tasty food source for your pets without the hassle of dealing with live insects. The flies are easy to maintain and will last for several weeks, ensuring that your pets are well-fed and healthy.
With free shipping included, this is a great deal that you don't want to miss out on. Whether you're a seasoned reptile owner or... more

Fruit Fly Culture

Flintstone, Maryland, 215**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$14

Our melanogaster flightless fruit fly cultures arrive well started with adult flies that will produce larvae within a few days. To care for the culture, simply keep it around 75 degrees, and do not feed off the flies until new flies have emerged. The culture will produce flies for up to 2-3 weeks.
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Fast Shipping!
... more

Flightless Fruit Fly Culture (Drosophila Hydei)

Catlett, Virginia, 201**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$16

Flightless Fruit Fly Culture (Drosophila Hydei)... more