Black fig fly larva. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the larval head region. Black fig fly is a small, glossy black fly with reddish eyes and brown legs, approximately 3.5 to 4.5 millimeters long. Adults are known to feed on sap from overripe fig fruits. Females have a long, sharp ovipositor that aids deposition of egg clusters in the ostiole of fig fruits. Larvae emerge from eggs inside of the fig and feed on internal fruit tissue, causing damage that can lead to premature fruit drop from trees. When ready, larvae make their way out of the fruit drop to the soil, and pupate. Pupae are the overwintering stage and in spring they emerge, mate, and begin to attack figs. Magnification: x300 when printed 10 centimetres wide.