Killifish

A home-made fly trap thats very effective
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

Killi.co.uk is funded by its visitors. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. For more info see terms and conditions.

Flightless Fruit Fly 2 PACK cultures Dart Frog Food Reptile Food Crazy Frog Lady

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

$22

This 2 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.
Whether you're a seasoned reptile owner or a new dart frog enthusiast, these Flightless Fruit Fly cultures are sure to be a hit with your pets.... more

The Bug Barn Fruit Fly Culture Media 0 5 lbs ?? Makes 3 Cultures

Dequincy, Louisiana, 706**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$15

his premium fruit fly media is designed for strong, reliable production of Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila hydei. Whether you??re feeding dart frogs, mantids, jumping spiders, or running a feeder??insect business, this mix delivers consistent, high??yield results every time
What You Get
0 5 lbs of dry media
Makes 3 full fruit fly cultures
Professional??grade formula used by breeders and hobbyists
Why It Works So Well
High??Yield Formula ?? Supports dense, productive ... 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

Drosophila Concentrate for Breeding Fruit Flies 1000g / 35 27oz

Cypress, California, 906**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$60

Produces plentiful quantities of fruit flies
Amazingly fast development
Superior fruit fly culture food... more

TC INSECTS Super Swarm Fruit Fly Culture Kit Makes 10 Cultures 32oz Cups

Huntsville, Texas, 773**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$35

TC INSECTS Super Swarm Fruit Fly Kit
Keep your feeder supply going with the TC INSECTS Super Swarm Fruit Fly Kit, a convenient all-in-one bundle designed to help hobbyists and breeders produce their own fruit fly cultures at home
This kit includes the essential supplies needed to make 10 fruit fly cultures, making it a great choice for reptile keepers, amphibian keepers, dart frog hobbyists, and anyone who wants a reliable source of feeder insects
Kit Includes:
1 5 lbs Super Swarm ... more