December 15, 2017
Sanitation – The nemesis of Fruit Flies
As Pest Management Professionals we are commonly tasked with solving Fruit Fly problems. As with all pest infestations we like to start with pest identification and education. Identifying the pest and educating the client are the first steps in solving all pest infestations.
Fruit Flies are 1/16” – 1/8” in length, yellow-tannish in color with bright red eyes. From egg to reproducing adult happens in one to two weeks depending heavily on temperature. An adult female can lay more than 500 eggs, making it very difficult to control the population. Eggs are typically laid on moist decaying organic materials. After the larvae emerge they begin feeding on the decaying organic materials within which they were laid. After feeding, larvae find cooler, dryer locations within which to pupate and morph into an adult.
Now that we have identified our pest. What are the means for controlling our pest? Well it’s really quite simple. Eliminate the breeding mediums and you will eliminate this pest. Start with a thorough cleaning of all decaying organic materials. Clean floor drains, sink drains, trash receptacles, under kitchen equipment, under floor mats and anywhere else wet organic materials accumulate. Dry out mop heads and wash rags by hanging them up until completely dry. The dry and cleaner the environment the better. Adults can be quickly knocked down with pyrethrins and the rest of the job can be left up to sanitation, sanitation, sanitation measures.
There are other measures that we as Pest Management Professionals can implement but the key to lasting sustainable Fruit Fly control is a clean dry environment. If you need additional assistance ridding your property of Fruit Flies, call Guardian for the most thorough pest solutions available.
