Eliminate sources for better control of small flies

“Small flies” such as fruit flies (Drosophilidae), drain flies (Psychodidae), phorid flies (Phoridae) and fungus gnats (Sciaridae) are problems in many accounts. Eliminating their sources is the first and most important step to control these pests.

For example:

• Inspecting for and removing rotten fruits and vegetables will eliminate prime breeding sites of fruit flies.
• For drain flies and phorid flies, look for areas of stagnant water with decaying organic material. Drains, trash cans and dumpsters all can be productive sources of these annoying flies.

When we cannot identify or eliminate all the sources, insect growth regulators (IGRs) are a good option. IGRs can be applied indoors in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. Application methods include general surface, broadcast, crack-and-crevice and foam treatments. IGRs control fly populations by preventing future generations. They can reduce eggs laid by treated flies and prevent larvae (maggots) from becoming adult flies.