Phorid Fly

Phorid flies can be a nuisance to you and your family when they appear around your house. Unfortunately, these pests can spread diseases as they transfer bacteria to kitchen surfaces and food left out in the open.

Read on to learn more about the Phorid fly, how to identify it, and ways to prevent infestation.

Facts, Identification, and Control

Below are some facts about Phorid flies

Latin Name

Family Phoridae

Appearance

Phorid flies are about an eighth inch in size. Most have a dull brown color, although this depends on the species. Unlike fruit flies that have bright red eyes, Phorid flies have dark and dull-colored eyes.

Look at pictures of phorid flies and you’ll notice a hump on their thorax, that’s why they are also known as Phorid humpbacked flies. They also prefer to run and walk on surfaces instead of flying.

Facts about Phorid Flies

Phorid flies reproduce quickly as one female can lay 40 eggs within 12 hours. The egg hatches into larvae.

Phorid fly larvae are about 10 millimeters in length and have a spindle shape. Most have a light yellow or white color.

The adult female lays eggs on decaying organic matter like rotting foods, animal carcass, sewage, or the drain film.

The larvae develop into immature insects that feed on organic matter. Some species lay eggs in the nests of wasps, bees, ants, and termites. All flies spend about sixteen days in the larval phase of development.

Where Do They Live?

Phorid flies can breed in any material. You can find them breeding in rotting produce, dumpsters, trash containers, drains, crawlspaces, grease traps, and recycle bins. You can also find them where there’s moist organic matter.

What Do They Eat?

These flies feed on decaying organic matter. The Phorid flies also consume rotting meat, sewage, decomposing fruits, and dead animal carcasses.

They can also consume fungi and organic debris that forms in soiled drains and trash receptacles.

How Did I Get Phorid Flies?

You may have a Phorid humpbacked fly infestation if you have a damaged or clogged drain. These flies may also be attracted to overwatered potted plant soils, dirty garbage containers, and sewer pipes.

Phorid flies like decaying organic matter, and you can get them if you have any decaying items in your house or around the yard.

How serious are Phorid Flies?

Phorid flies breed and feed on decaying matter. That means there’s a high risk of them spreading diseases to humans. These flies also breed quickly as one female can lay up to 700 eggs, something that would lead to exponential growth. You may need an integrated pest control plan to handle a Phorid fly infestation.

Having an infestation can be bothersome and unsightly as these pests reproduce at a fast rate.

What Can I Do About Phorid Flies?

If you’ve noticed Phorid flies around your kitchen, you need to clean out the countertops to remove any spills and food crumbs. Check under the garbage to see if there are any spills.

Throw away spoiled fruits and vegetables. Cover all food items in sealed containers. Don’t forget to repair any leaky pipes or plumbing systems that could be creating a moist environment for these flies.

Signs of a Phorid Fly Infestation

The most common sign of a Phorid fly infestation is the presence of adult flies. These flies are challenging to spot, and seeing them in an indoor setting is an indication of an infestation. Moreover, these flies are attracted to light, which means they gravitate towards sources of illumination like lamps.

Phorid Fly Prevention and Control Tips

You can prevent a Phorid fly infestation by:

Covering Trash Cans

Phorid flies like to nest around decaying matter. Ensure that you cover and line your trash receptacles to keep the flies away. If possible, empty the trash receptacles daily and clean them.

Get Rid of Breeding Sites

Eliminate potential breeding sites through sanitation. If you have any decaying food or plants, make sure to remove and throw it away to prevent an infestation. You also need to practice moisture control to avoid having Phorid flies in your home.

Clean After Your Pets

If you have pets around your house, you need to clean up after them regularly to avoid attracting these flies.

Seal any Gaps Inside and Outside the House

Phorid flies can get in through the tiniest cracks in your house. Inspect your exterior and interior for any holes and gaps. Seal and caulk any gaps on your doors and windows. Also, cover the openings in your home’s foundation.

Phorid Fly Professional Pest Control

Phorid flies are confused with drain flies or fruit flies. Moreover, it can be challenging to control a Phorid fly infestation, which is why you need to consult a professional pest control company. They can identify the fly problem you’re dealing with and recommend the best method to get rid of them.

More information about Phorid flies

https://extension.psu.edu/phorid-flies

https://ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/phorid-flies

https://utahpests.usu.edu/schoolipm/structural-pest-id-guide/phorid-flies