Fungus Gnat

Natural Habitat

Moist environments, indoor potted plants, greenhouses, and organic mulches outdoors.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on liquids like nectar or water; larvae consume fungi, algae, and decaying plant matter, occasionally targeting live plant roots.

Behavior Patterns

Attracted to light and moisture; weak fliers that often run across surfaces. They have a short life cycle of 3 to 4 weeks, with eggs laid in moist soil.

Risks & Benefits

Primarily a nuisance to humans; larvae can damage root systems of houseplants if populations are high. They benefit ecosystems by aiding in the decomposition of organic matter.

Identified on: 6/14/2026