Community identification
Fungus gnat
Bradysia spp.
- Order & Family
- Order: Diptera; Family: Sciaridae
- Size
- 2 to 3 millimeters (about 1/8 inch) in length.
Natural Habitat
Damp soil high in organic matter, greenhouse environments, and indoor potted plants.
Diet & Feeding
Adults do not feed; larvae consume fungi, algae, and organic mulch, but can feed on plant roots and root hairs.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are weak fliers often seen crawling on soil or flying close to the surface. Their life cycle from egg to adult takes about 3-4 weeks in warm conditions.
Risks & Benefits
Generally a nuisance pest; while adults are harmless to humans, high larval populations can damage root systems of young plants or seedlings and spread fungal diseases.