Fruit flies part 6: Troubleshooting common problems

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

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

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

$35

This 2 pack of Golden 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 ... more

MUSLIN Black Nylon Sheets 27 " x18" 5-lot Fruit Fly Springtail Isopod Cultures

Lombard, Illinois, 601**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$10

MUSLIN Black Nylon Sheets 27" x 18" Lot of 5
For Fruit Fly Springtail Isopod Cultures
These Sheets are sourced from the Wholesale Floral Industry, used in Orchid arrangements that require high air flow. As such, the Sheets are very light weight. Each sheet has a small 3" 'X' cut in the center of the sheet, to allow stem passage. Each quadrant of the sheet is enough for 2-3 culture jars depending on their size, even more if you're using culture vials.
Sold in lots of 5 Sheets. Sheets ... more

Black Mel Flightless Fruit Fly ?? Live Feeder Insects - 32oz Master Culture

Xenia, Ohio, 453**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$15

What You??re Buying
Live, producing Black melanogaster flightless fruit fly culture. Cultures ship fresh and are ideal for reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and small insectivores
Why Black melanogaster
Black melanogaster are smaller than hydei and ideal for pets that need a slightly smaller feeder
Culture Notes
Cultures require 7??14 days after arrival to become fully productive. Plan feedings accordingly
Shipping & Handling
Shipped carefully with insulation when ... more

Turkish Gliders Fruit Fly 4 PACK cultures Dart Frog Food Reptile Food

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

$30

This package contains four cultures of Turkish Gliders Fruit Fly, perfect for feeding your pet reptiles, including dart frogs. These fruit flies are a delicious and nutritious food source that will keep your pets healthy and happy
Each culture contains a large number of fruit flies, ensuring that you will have enough food for your pets for a while. The package is designed for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality food source for their pets
... more

Flightless Fruit Fly Culture (Drosophila Melanogaster) Free Shipping

San Juan, Puerto Rico, 009**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$15

Flightless Fruit Fly Culture (Drosophila Melanogaster) Free Shipping

Ship Monday-Wednesday

Live arrival guaranteed

Any question or problem send me a message
... more