Bug Identifier
Fungus Gnat
Community identification

Fungus Gnat

Orfelia spp. and Bradysia spp.

Order & Family
Order: Diptera; Family: Sciaridae (or Mycetophilidae)
Size
2 to 8 millimeters
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Damp environments, typically found in potting soil of houseplants, greenhouses, and moist organic mulch.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on fungi, algae, and decaying plant matter in the soil; adults typically do not feed or consume nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Weak flyers often seen crawling on soil or hovering near light sources. They have a short life cycle of about 3-4 weeks from egg to adult.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans but can be a nuisance indoors. Large larval populations may damage plant roots, while they benefit ecosystems by breaking down organic matter.