
Community identification
Fungus Gnat
Bradysia spp.
- Order & Family
- Order: Diptera, Family: Sciaridae
- Size
- 2 to 8 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Damp environments rich in organic matter, often found in indoor potted plant soil, greenhouses, and moist kitchen areas.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on fungi, algae, and decaying plant matter in the soil; adults do not feed or consume only liquids like nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are weak fliers often seen crawling on surfaces or flying near moisture sources. They have a short lifespan of about one week but reproduce quickly in moist soil.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans but can be a nuisance indoors. Large larval populations may damage plant roots, while they benefit the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter.