Gnats vs. Fruit Flies: How to Tell the Difference

Though they may look similar, not all small flies are the same. While it's true that both gnats and fruit flies are insects in the same order, Diptera, their appearances, what attracts them, and their behaviors are quite different. Thankfully, small fly control is easy to manage once you know which fly you have and what to look out for.

Gnats

The term “gnat” is both casual and scientific. “Gnat” is both a common name for any small fly and a scientific name used to describe certain flies in the suborder Nematocera. Though entomologists debate the exact list of flies in this category, most scientists agree that gnats include fungus gnats, wood gnats, eye gnats, black flies, and biting midges. 

You can identify a gnat by its:

• Small size, 1/16 – 1/8 inches long
• Black, brown, or yellow bodies
• Harborage areas, including animal waste, trash cans, and overwatered house plants

Gnats feed, breed, and hang out in sludgy, moist substrates. Gnats love to hover, and are often seen flying just above their food source. The key to gnat and small fly control is to identify these problem areas and reduce or remove them as much as possible. 

Fruit Flies

Fruit flies are the poster child for small flies found in kitchens and dining rooms. Small and energetic, these flies are attracted to fermenting fruits, vegetables, and liquids. While fruit flies can and do fly, they are more often seen crawling across their food sources.

You can identify a fruit fly by its:

• Small size, 1/8 inches long
• Light brow bodies with bright red eyes
• Harborage areas, including fruit bowls, compost piles, and exposed cups of beer or wine 

Fruit flies can be a real headache in a home given the variety of places they like to feed and breed on. Removing these areas, starting with putting exposed food and drink in sealed containers, can help reduce fruit fly populations around your house.  

Small Fly Control

Got small flies? Not for long! Tell flies to buzz off and call Mosquito Squad Plus today! Our Squad Fly Control pest package is the best defense against flies. To learn more about our Squad Fly Control services and get a free quote on your service, call a Squad near you today! Services vary by location.