Fungus Gnat

Natural Habitat

Damp, shaded environments; commonly found in potted plants, greenhouses, and areas with decaying organic matter, moist soil, or fungus.

Diet & Feeding

Adult fungus gnats typically do not feed or feed on liquids. Larvae feed on fungi, decaying organic matter, and roots of plants.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are weak fliers and often seen walking on leaves or soil. Larvae live in the soil and can cause damage to plant roots. They are attracted to light but generally remain near their breeding sites. Their life cycle from egg to adult is usually 3-4 weeks.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include plant damage (especially to seedlings and young plants) from larval feeding on roots, and they can be a nuisance indoors. They do not bite humans or animals. Benefits include acting as decomposers in their natural habitat, contributing to nutrient cycling.

Identified on: 9/17/2025