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

Flightless Fruit Fly (Melanogaster / Small Fly) 32oz Culture

Vinita, Oklahoma, 743**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$18

The flightless Drosophila Melanogaster (small fruit fly) are bred in a 32oz reusable / dishwasher safe container with a vented lid. The lid has an easy access tab to limit the number of fruit fly escape and death from lid closure
The cup contains nutrient dense media: Wheat farina, malted barley, steel-cut oats, wheat bran, rolled oats, ground flax seeds, maize, apple puree, banana puree, water, apple cider vinegar, brewer's yeast, wheat germ, ground eggshell, smoked paprika, and spirulina. ... more

Josh's Frogs Fruit Fly Media - Hydei Formula, 1 5lbs

Millsboro, Delaware, 199**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$35

Josh's Frogs Fruit Fly Media - Hydei Formula, 1 5lbs. Condition is New. Shipped with Standard Shipping.... more

Flightless Fruit Fly Culture (Drosophila Golden Hydei)

Ogden, Utah, 844**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$16

Flightless Fruit Fly Culture (Drosophila Golden Hydei). Condition is New. These flightless fruit fly cultures come in a 32oz cup with a ventilated lid, excelsior wool and culture mix. It will come with 100 adult flys that will already be laying new generations upon arrival. For best practices, do not use flys until 5 days after first generation hatches to ensure new generation. These cultures will last you several weeks. Do not be alarmed if flies do not make it in transportation. They only live... more

Flightless Fruit Fly Cultures 16 PACK Dart Frog Food Reptile Food FREE SHIPPING

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

$130

This 16 pack of Flightless Fruit Fly cultures 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 a new dart ... more

Flightless Fruit Flies (newly started 24oz Drosophila hydei culture)

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, 180**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$14

The Flightless Fruit Flies are a unique and entertaining addition to any pet or reptile setup. These Drosophila hydei flies are specifically bred to lack wings, making them easy to handle and control. With a 24oz culture size, you can enjoy watching these tiny creatures with your reptiles or as a fun experiment for children. These flies are a great way to add a touch of live action to your home environment while also providing a fun and interactive experience for your pets
... more