Bug Identifier
Drain Fly Larva
Community identification

Drain Fly Larva

Psychodidae (Larva)

Order & Family
Order: Diptera; Family: Psychodidae
Size
Typically 3 mm to 10 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in moist, organic-rich environments such as bathroom drains, septic tanks, grease traps, and damp compost.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on the gelatinous film of organic matter, fungi, and bacteria that accumulates in sewage and plumbing pipes.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae stay submerged or semi-submerged in sludge; they breathe through a small tube at the end of their body. They move by wiggling through the slime.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or transmit diseases directly, but can indicate plumbing issues or sanitation needs. In the ecosystem, they are beneficial decomposers that break down organic waste.