Fungus Gnat
Scientific Name: Orfelia spp. or Bradysia spp.
Order & Family: Order: Diptera, Family: Sciaridae or Keroplatidae
Size: 2-8 mm (approx. 1/16 to 1/8 inch)
Natural Habitat
Damp environments, particularly houseplant soil, greenhouses, and areas with decaying organic matter and moisture.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae primarily feed on fungi, algae, and decaying plant matter in the soil; adults do not feed or occasionally consume nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are weak fliers often seen crawling on soil or flying in zig-zag patterns near light sources; they have a short life cycle of about 3-4 weeks.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans but can be a nuisance; larvae can damage plant roots if populations are high, but they also help decompose organic matter.
Identified on: 6/5/2026