Bug Identifier
Drain Fly Larvae (Moth Fly)
Community identification

Drain Fly Larvae (Moth Fly)

Psychodidae

Order & Family
Diptera: Psychodidae
Size
3mm to 10mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in stagnant water, sewer lines, septic tanks, and damp organic film inside drains.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on the nutrient-rich gelatinous film or slime (biofilm) that builds up in drains consisting of algae, bacteria, and fungi.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae stay submerged in slime but breathe through a siphon; they pupate near the surface and emerge as fuzzy, moth-like adults after 1-3 weeks.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans but may indicate poor hygiene or a plumbing leak; however, they can mechanically transport bacteria if populations are high.