Larvae feed principally on the yeast in the fermenting fluids from five to six days and crawl to drier portions of the food or even out of it to pupate. The larva transforms into the pupa in the last larval skin or puparium. The life cycle may be completed in 8 to 15 days depending on the temperature. Adults are attracted to yeast growth that cause fermentation and populations may build up on boxes of cracked tomatoes in the field or on pallets at receiving stations of canneries. This fly has been widely used by geneticists in studies of the laws of heredity since it is very prolific, easy to rear and has a short life cycle.
Eggs laid by females become nonviable after mating with radiation-treated males.
Control Measures Vinegar flies do not bite humans but are a nuisance by their presence. It is best to concentrate on eliminating the larval feeding sites and breeding sites. Eradication In Ohio, these flies are often quite abundant outdoors in late August, September and October when fruits and vegetables become ripe and mature. Homeowners bring garden produce indoors unknowingly along with various life stages of these flies. Sanitation is critical in the successful control of these flies.