Bug Identifier
Drain Fly (Moth Fly)
Community identification

Drain Fly (Moth Fly)

Psychodidae

Order & Family
Order Diptera, Family Psychodidae
Size
2mm to 5mm in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Damp areas with organic matter, such as drains, sewers, septic tanks, and damp soil.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on decomposing organic matter and the biofilm (slime) found in pipes. Adults feed on liquid carbohydrates and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

They are poor fliers and are typically seen crawling on walls near drains. They are most active at night. Their life cycle from egg to adult takes about 1 to 3 weeks.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or sting and are not known to transmit diseases to humans. They are generally considered a nuisance pest. Benefits include the larvae helping to break down organic material in sewage systems.