Even though fruit flies and gnats are flying insects that look very similar, they belong to different families. There are some distinct characteristics between these two types of flies that classify them as separate species. These characteristics include their overall appearance, their habitat and environment, and their life cycle.
While fruit flies and gnats look incredibly similar, their appearance has a few key differences. Fruit flies are small, typically three to four millimeters in length. Their body is tan-colored with bright red eyes. Gnats vary depending on the type of species, however, here in the Pacific Northwest, the most common gnats are Fungus Gnats. These gnats are ⅛ inches long and resemble tiny mosquitoes. Their bodies appear dark gray or black with smoky-colored wings.
Another vital characteristic between gnats and fruit flies is their environment. Fruit flies are usually found near fruits and vegetables, especially those that are rotting. Fruit flies are attracted to the sweet scent of fruits and vegetables. Conversely, gnats are attracted to decaying organic matter, houseplants, and damp soil.
Because these species have different habitats, they are not commonly found in the same places. Fruit flies will rely on overripe fruits or vegetables as their breeding grounds. Inside produce is where fruit flies lay their eggs, allow them to hatch, and develop into adult fruit flies. Fungus gnats will typically lay their eggs in damp soil. Fungus gnats will be found near ponds, lakes, streams, rivers, or any area where the soil is damper due to the water source.
One of the most significant differences between the two species is their lifecycle. Fruit flies can live for forty to fifty days while adult gnats only live for eight days. Fruit flies can reproduce quickly. Fruit flies can fully develop from an egg to a full-grown adult in less than two weeks. Gnat larvae will eat for two weeks before they emerge from the soil as full adults. At this point, they advance into the pupal stage which lasts three to seven days. After this stage, they become full adults and only live for eight days.
Luckily these bugs are nothing but a nuisance and are not harmful to humans or pets. However, at Insight Pest Solutions, we understand that often, a nuisance can quickly lead to intolerable living conditions. If you are experiencing a surplus of gnats of fruit flies in or around your home, contact your local Insight Pest Solutions for a free quote!
