Many people wonder what attracts household flies. Understanding the science behind vinegar, a common household ingredient, can help explain its role in managing fly populations.
The Attractant Power of Vinegar
Vinegar, particularly apple cider vinegar, attracts fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster). This attraction stems from the fermentation process that creates vinegar. As fruits ferment, they produce acetic acid, the primary component of vinegar’s pungent aroma. Fruit flies are drawn to this scent because it mimics the smell of overripe or decaying fruit, which serves as their natural food source and a prime location for laying eggs. Their olfactory system is highly sensitive to volatile compounds like acetic acid, guiding them toward these fermenting substances.
While fruit flies are strongly attracted to vinegar, the attraction for common house flies is less pronounced. House flies may be drawn to the strong smell of vinegar as it can signal a nearby food source, but they are not as specifically adapted to it. Fruit flies can ignore or even avoid very low or very high concentrations of vinegar odor; low concentrations might suggest unripe fruit, while high concentrations could indicate overly rotten fruit. However, hungry fruit flies show an increased attraction across a broader range of vinegar concentrations.
Effective Vinegar Fly Traps
Simple and effective fly traps can be made using common household items. The basic setup involves a container, like a bowl or jar, partially filled with apple cider vinegar. To enhance effectiveness, a few drops of liquid dish soap are added to the vinegar. The dish soap is crucial because it breaks the surface tension of the liquid, preventing flies from simply landing on the vinegar and flying away. Once a fly attempts to land on the surface, it sinks into the solution and drowns.
After adding the vinegar and dish soap, the container’s opening is typically covered with plastic wrap, secured with a rubber band. Small holes are poked into the plastic wrap. These holes should be large enough for fruit flies to enter but small enough to make escaping difficult once they are inside. For optimal results, these traps should be placed in areas where flies are frequently observed, such as near fruit bowls, kitchen sinks, or trash bins. Regular maintenance, including checking the traps and replacing the vinegar solution every few days, ensures continued effectiveness.