No, you generally can't keep fruit flies in the fridge, as the cold environment is not conducive to their survival.
Fruit flies thrive in warm, humid environments where they can easily access fermenting fruits and vegetables. Refrigerators offer the opposite conditions:
-
Low Temperatures: Refrigerators are designed to maintain low temperatures, typically between 35-40°F (1-4°C). These temperatures significantly slow down or halt the metabolic processes necessary for fruit fly survival. They cannot tolerate such cold temperatures for extended periods.
-
Limited Food Source: While you might have fruit in your fridge, the availability is limited and contained. Fruit flies prefer exposed, rotting fruit.
-
Sealed Environment: While not perfectly airtight, refrigerators are generally well-sealed to prevent cold air from escaping. This makes it difficult for fruit flies to enter in the first place. Any existing fruit flies are usually sealed in rather than new flies entering.
In Summary: The cold temperatures inside a refrigerator will kill fruit flies, making it an unsuitable environment for them to live and reproduce. While they might temporarily survive if accidentally trapped inside, they won't thrive.