Drain Fly Larva

Damp environments rich in organic matter, such as house drains, sewage treatment plants, septic tanks, and wet soil.

Decomposing organic matter, algae, bacteria, and fungi (biofilm) found in slime layers of drains.

Larvae are aquatic or semi-aquatic; they use a specialized breathing tube to reach the surface for air while submerged in slime. They typically go through four larval stages (instars) before pupating.

While they do not bite or transmit diseases to humans, large populations can be a nuisance and may indicate a clog or plumbing leak. They benefit the ecosystem by breaking down organic sludge in pipes and sewage systems.