They may probably do somewhat better in strong light, but I culture mine in a dark cupboard, where they also prosper. This doesn't seem logical I agree, but it still works. It may depend upon what sort of media you are using, and whether there is a possible mold problem with cultures in the dark with certain media. I don't know for sure, because I haven't experimented much. I simply use Saurian's media, which seems to be mostly potato flakes, add water, some baker's yeast on top, and stuff in a bit of excelsior for extra space for pupating, put them in the cupboard and feed from each culture as it becomes mature enough not to have a lot of larvae still crawing around. I don't ever have molds, and just discard the cultures if they become stinky, or when they eventually fail after a month to six weeks or more, depending upon whether the culture is D. malanogaster or D. hydei. They all do better at temperatures between 72 and 76 degrees. In my own experience, light isn't necessary. It may however, enhance some of the nurients the flies take up and pass on to the forgs.
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Patty

Pahsimeroi, Idaho



4 D. auratus blue

5 D. galactonotus pumpkin orange splash back

5 D. imitator

6 D. leucomelas

4 D. pumilio Bastimentos

4 D. fantasticus

4 P. terribilis

4 D. reticulatus

4 D. castaneoticus

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