
Community identification
Drain Fly Larva
Psychoda spp.
- Order & Family
- Order Diptera, Family Psychodidae
- Size
- 3 to 10 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Damp environments rich in organic matter, such as drains, sewage treatment plants, septic tanks, and wet soil.
Diet & Feeding
Decomposing organic matter, algae, bacteria, and fungi found in the gelatinous film layer of drains.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae live within the organic film of drains and are highly resilient to temperature changes and low oxygen. They eventually pupate and emerge as fuzzy, moth-like adult flies.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite and are generally harmless to humans, but their presence indicates a buildup of organic sludge. In large numbers, they can be a nuisance and potentially transport bacteria from drains to food surfaces.