
Community identification
Fungus Gnat
Sciaroidea (superfamily)
- Order & Family
- Order Diptera, Family Sciaridae or Mycetophilidae
- Size
- 2 to 8 mm (approximately 1/16 to 1/4 inch)
Natural Habitat
Damp environments high in organic matter, such as potting soil, mulched garden beds, and moist greenhouses.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae primarily feed on fungi, algae, and decaying plant matter in the soil; adults typically do not feed or drink only water/nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are weak fliers and often seen hovering near the soil surface or resting on foliage; they have a short life cycle of about 3 to 4 weeks.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans (non-biting), but larvae can damage young plant roots and seedlings in high concentrations; they serve as a food source for spiders and predatory insects.