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 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
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Instant Fruit Fly Medium (Drosophila melanogaster and hydei diet)

New York, 100**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$30

Instant Fruit Fly Medium(Drosophila melanogaster and D hydei diet)
This premium instant Fruit Fly Medium is a nutrient-rich blend formulated to support the optimal growth and reproduction of fruit flies. Featuring beet root, this medium provides a vibrant and nutritious environment for both Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila hydei species. Enhanced with essential vitamins and minerals, it ensures your fruit fly cultures thrive, producing healthy, nutrient-packed flies for feeding ... more

Drosophila hydei (Flightless Fruit Fly Culture) - LIVE FEEDER INSECTS CULTURE

Cleveland, Georgia, 305**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$30

??PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING??
(WHAT YOU RECEIVE)
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FRUIT FLY: Drosophila Hydei (flightless)
SIZE: 1 / 8?? inches (larger than melanogaster fruit flies)
COUNT: 50+ (will produce prolifically)
(BASIC INFO)
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LIVE FOOD SOURCE FOR: Dart Frogs, Jumping Spiders, Praying
Mantis, Mantids, Morning Geckos, ... more

Fruit Fly & Drain Fly Killer - Simple Commercial Drain Gel Treatment

Saint Louis, Missouri, 631**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$27

Fruit Fly & Drain Fly Killer - Simple Commercial Drain Gel Treatment ?? Eliminates Gross Fruit Flies, Drain Flies, Sewer Flies & Gnat Infestations From Any Drain. Fast & Easy
FAST ACTING & EASY TO USE ?? Simply Pour This Specially Formulated Gel Solution Down Any Sink Drain Or Floor Drain Where Fruit Flies and Drain Flies Breed. Works On The Worst Fruit Fly & Drain Fly Infestations. Can Be Used In Bars, Bathrooms, Homes, Hotels, Kitchens & Restaurants
HOW IT WORKS ... more

Fruit Fly Culture 8Pack Variety Live Flightless Turkish Gliders Golden and Hydei

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

$65

Welcome to our listing for a Fruit Fly Culture 8 Pack Variety! This product is perfect for those in need of a live food source for their reptiles and small frogs
This 8 pack includes: 2 Flightless Melanogaster, 2 Turkish Gliders, 2 Golden, and 2 Hydei flies. These fruit flies are perfect for feeding reptiles and small frogs, as they are flightless and will stay in the enclosure for a longer period of time. Our product comes from Crazy Frog Lady L L.C, a trusted brand in the industry
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