Drain Fly Larva (also known as Moth Fly Larva or Sewer Gnat Larva)
Scientific Name: Psychodidae (Family) - often Clogmia albipunctata
Order & Family: Order: Diptera, Family: Psychodidae
Size: Typically 3 to 10 millimeters in length
Natural Habitat
Found in moist, organic environments, frequently in bathroom or kitchen drains, sewers, septic tanks, and wet compost or soil.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on decaying organic matter, sludge, algae, bacteria, and fungi found in drains and stagnant water.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are semi-aquatic and breathe through a tube at their posterior end; they are resilient and can survive hot water and soap; adults are poor fliers and are nocturnal.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans (do not bite or sting), but can be a nuisance pest; they can potentially transmit bacteria mechanically from sewage to surfaces; beneficial as decomposers in natural environments but undesirable in homes.
Identified on: 3/2/2026