It’s A Coffin Fly?
Phorid flies are very similar to fruit flies, and they are found throughout the world. Phorid flies are also about 1/8 inches in length and are tannish color. They do not have red eyes like the fruit fly but do have a noticeable 'hump' on their backs. They feed mainly on decaying organic material and lay eggs in such suitable materials.
Phoridae are a family of small, hump-backed flies resembling fruit flies. Phorid flies can often be identified by their escape, of running rapidly across a surface rather than flying, giving them the other nickname "scuttle fly". They are a distinct and successful group of insects.
Coffin Flies are another name for the Phorid fly. because they are known to be found in mortuaries and mausoleums. Also a serious threat in hospitals since females will lay their eggs in open wounds. The female will lay up to 40 eggs in a 12 hour period. Approximately 24 hours later they will hatch. Usually the larvae will feed up to 18 days then crawl to a drier place to pupate. The entire cycle can be done in as little as 14 days but typically takes a month.
Coffin Flies are even another name for the Scuttle fly because they are known to be found in mortuaries and mausoleums. Also they are a serious threat in hospitals since females will lay their eggs in open wounds. The female can lay up to 40 eggs in a 12 hour period. The hatchlings will approximately hatch 24 hours later. The larvae will feed up to 18 days then crawl into a drier place to pupate. The entire cycle can be done in as little as 14 days but typically takes a month.
Phorid fly larvae can only live in moist organic matter. They can be found most of the time in your sink or shower drains. If adult flies are found in the drains that's a good indicator they are there. To be rid of the flies, the drain must be thoroughly cleaned. You need a good scrubby brush to remove the residue in the drain and some bleach poured into the drain should help, but may not be 100% affective unless you remove all the organic matter. Another helpful tip is removing the pea trap and cleaning it as it will be a prime feeding spot and attractor.
The Phorid Fly loves the same places as the fruit fly; the best measure to be rid of them is a thorough cleaning of affected areas. Places that they love to dine are drains, garbage cans, spills under the refrigerator and decaying vegetables. You know that onion that was in the back of the pantry you forgot is probably a culprit. The fruit fly trap is also a good way to eliminate the adults. Just put a small amount of red wine or apple cider vinegar into a shallow dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and then poke a hole into it.
