Fungus Gnat

Natural Habitat

Damp, humid environments, often associated with potting soil of houseplants, greenhouses, and decaying organic matter. Larvae live in soil.

Diet & Feeding

Adult fungus gnats typically do not feed or feed on liquids like nectar. Larvae feed on fungi, decaying organic matter, and sometimes plant roots.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and moisture; they are poor fliers and often seen walking on surfaces or crawling on plants. Females lay eggs in moist soil. Larvae develop in soil, feeding on organic matter. Life cycle from egg to adult is usually 3-4 weeks depending on conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include being a nuisance pest indoors due to their presence, especially around houseplants. Large infestations of larvae can sometimes damage the roots of seedlings or weak plants. Generally, they do not pose direct health risks to humans. Ecologically, they contribute to decomposition of organic matter.

Identified on: 10/22/2025