
Community identification
Drain Fly
Psychodidae
- Order & Family
- Order Diptera, Family Psychodidae
- Size
- 1.5 to 5.0 mm (approx. 1/16 to 1/5 inch)
Natural Habitat
Damp areas with organic matter, commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, drains, and sewers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on the gelatinous film of bacteria, fungi, and decomposing organic matter inside drains. Adults consume liquid carbohydrates like nectar or polluted water.
Behavior Patterns
Poor fliers that often crawl on walls. They are nocturnal and are attracted to light. Their life cycle is short, typically taking 7-28 days from egg to adult.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans and do not bite. They can be a nuisance in large numbers and may mechanically transport bacteria from drains to food surfaces, though they are not known to transmit specific human diseases.