Gnats and Fruit Flies look similar and some consider them to be the same thing. Gnats and Fruit Flies are actually different species. There are many differences when it comes to both Gnats and Fruit Flies. One difference being that Gnats are generally found outside while fruit flies are found inside, swarming in the kitchen looking for food. 

Gnats

Gnats are about ⅛ to 1/16 of an inch long and are brown, black, or yellow. Gnats also have longer legs than fruit flies. Gnats are typically found outdoors in moist soil, but they can also be found in dirty drains, or under refrigerators. Gnat larvae can also feed on fungus in the soil. 

Gnats are attracted to light. They can enter your house from a potted plant, or through an open door or window. Unsanitary habits bring gnats inside. Once gnats are inside they reproduce in favorable conditions such as dirty drains and overwatered houseplants. 

Gnats are a nuisance and can spread parasites and spread diseases to humans or animals. It is important to make sure that homes do not have any favorable conditions for gnats to gravitate to. 

Fruit Flies 

Fruit Flies are about 1/8 inch in length. They are tan, brown-yellow or brown-black in color. They have red eyes and have short antennae. Fruit flies gravitate to warm and wet areas and invade mature vegetables and fruits in kitchens. They can be present at any time of year.  Fruit Flies lay their eggs on mature fruits or vegetables or in containers of rotting fruits and vegetables that are not sealed well. Fruit Flies can also lay eggs in garbage disposals. 

Fruit flies can be found anywhere that fruits and vegetables are present. These places are typically housing, restaurants, and bars. Fruit Flies can infest beer tap spigots or soda drains. Fruits like apples, pears, and bananas can be a source for fruit flies to lay their eggs. They can also lay their eggs on potatoes. 

Fruit Flies are a nuisance and can be challenging to get rid of. Make sure that rotting fruit and vegetables are disposed of and make sure that any spilt fruit or vegetable juice is cleaned up as soon as possible. 

DIY Hint: In coordination with the professional treatment that we provide cleaning out your garbage disposal will help combat gnat and fruit fly infestations. All you will need is boiling hot water and ice.  

1. Pour ice into disposal, making sure that it is overflowing out of the disposal.
2. Pour 2 liters of boiling hot water on top of the ice and into the garbage disposal. 
3. Turn on garbage disposal and let it run until the water and ice has cleared.
4. Check and clean your p-trap which is the little J under your sink. 

If you are experiencing Gnats or Fruit Flies, contact the experts at Magic Pest in Austin to help identify which nuisance you are dealing with. Our experts will identify and come up with a solution to keep them away for good.