How Does Mold Form on Rotting Fruit?

[Euphoriet]

Do they really form from fruit going bad... or do they COME To the fruit.. I don't understand how they would form.. from just fruit.. =-/

 

[iansmith]

Fruit flies lay their eggs near the surface of fermenting foods or other moist, organic materials. Upon emerging, the tiny larvae continue to feed near the surface of the fermenting mass. This surface-feeding characteristic of the larvae is significant in that damaged or over-ripened portions of fruits and vegetables can be cut away without having to discard the remainder for fear of retaining any developing larvae.

http://www.uky.edu/Agriculture/Entomology/entfacts/struct/ef621.htm

 

[R0man]

The formation of mold and the process of fruit going bad are closely related. Mold spores are present in the air and can easily land on and grow on fruit, especially if the fruit is damaged or bruised. When fruit starts to go bad, it becomes softer and releases moisture, creating an ideal environment for mold to grow. So, in a sense, mold does come to the fruit, but it is only able to grow and thrive because the fruit is already in a state of decay. Additionally, mold can also spread from one piece of fruit to another, further contributing to the mystery of how it forms on seemingly fresh fruit. The best way to prevent mold from forming on fruit is to store it properly and consume it before it starts to go bad.