Phorid Fly

Natural Habitat

Moist organic matter, drains, sewers, trash cans, and rotting vegetation

Diet & Feeding

Decaying organic material, fungi, and bacterial film in drains

Behavior Patterns

Characterized by a 'scuttling' or rapid running motion across surfaces instead of immediate flight when disturbed; they undergo complete metamorphosis from egg to adult in roughly 14-25 days.

Risks & Benefits

They are nuisance pests that can mechanically transport pathogens from unsanitary habitats to food surfaces; however, they serve as important decomposers in the environment.

Identified on: 1/8/2026