Fungus Gnat
Scientific Name: Orfelia sp. or Bradysia sp.
Order & Family: Order: Diptera; Family: Sciaridae or Keroplatidae
Size: 2mm to 8mm in length
Natural Habitat
Damp environments with high organic matter, frequently found near overwatered houseplants, greenhouses, and moist soil.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on fungi, algae, and decaying plant matter in the soil; occasionally they feed on plant roots. Adults do not feed or drink only water/nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Weak flyers that tend to stay close to the soil surface; they have a short lifespan of about one week as adults and are highly attracted to light.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans but can be a nuisance. Large larval populations may damage plant root systems, leading to wilting or stunted growth in indoor plants.
Identified on: 3/23/2026