Which fly is characterized by having four stripes on its thorax?

The house fly is characterized by having four distinctive dark stripes on its thorax, which is a key identifying feature of this common pest. This pattern can be seen when observing the fly from above, making it easier to differentiate from other types of flies. House flies are prevalent in various environments and are often associated with human habitats due to their attraction to food and waste.

In contrast, the other options do not share this specific physical trait. The phorid fly typically has a more rounded body and lacks notable stripes on its thorax. The fruit fly is much smaller and is distinguished by its reddish eyes and other specific markings but does not have stripes. The stable fly resembles a house fly but has a more pronounced pattern with spots and does not have the characteristic four stripes. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in pest identification and management within structural pest control.