Drain Fly Larva (sometimes mistaken for a tiny millipede or moth larva)

Found in moist, organic-rich environments such as sink drains, shower drains, sewage pipes, beneath leaking fixtures, and occasionally in damp carpets or soil near plumbing leaks.

Feeds on decaying organic matter, gelatinous slime (biofilm) that accumulates in drains, microscopic plants, and algae.

The larvae are semi-aquatic but can survive on damp surfaces. They are legless but move using a distinct wriggling motion. They often appear black or dark grey with a whitish underside and darker bands on their dorsal side. They eventually pupate into small, fuzzy, moth-like flies.

They do not bite humans or pets, but they can be a nuisance pest. Their presence in large numbers usually indicates a plumbing issue or a buildup of organic sludge. While generally harmless, they can mechanically transmit bacteria from the filthy drains they inhabit to clean surfaces.