Fungus Gnat Larva
Scientific Name: Sciaridae (family level)
Order & Family: Diptera (Order); Sciaridae (Family)
Size: Typically 3 mm to 6 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found in damp environments, particularly in potted plant soil, greenhouses, and decaying organic matter where fungi and mold thrive.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily feeds on fungi, algae, mold, and decaying plant material in the soil; occasionally damages plant roots.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae live within the top layers of moist soil; they are legless and worm-like with a distinct shiny black head capsule. They eventually pupate in the soil to emerge as small flying gnats.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans and pets (they don't bite). They are beneficial decomposers in nature, but in homes and greenhouses, they are considered pests because large populations can damage plant roots and stunt growth, especially in seedlings.
Identified on: 3/8/2026