Pantry Midge / Fungus Gnat
Scientific Name: Sciaroidea (General superfamily)
Order & Family: Diptera: Sciaridae
Size: 2 to 8 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Damp areas, houseplant soil, or decaying organic material indoors
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on fungi, algae, and organic matter in soil; adults do not typically feed.
Behavior Patterns
Attracted to light; often seen flying sluggishly around houseplants or windows. They have a short lifespan of about 10 days.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans; larvae can occasionally damage plant roots in high numbers, but generally serve as decomposers.
Identified on: 1/6/2026