
Community identification
Drain fly larva
Psychodidae
- Order & Family
- Order Diptera, Family Psychodidae
- Size
- 4 to 10 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Moist areas with organic film, such as kitchen or bathroom drains, sewers, and septic tanks.
Diet & Feeding
Decaying organic matter, algae, fungi, and bacteria found in biofilm/scum.
Behavior Patterns
They live and develop within the gelatinous film found in drains; they breathe through a small respiratory tube (siphon) at the end of their bodies.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans but can be a nuisance; in large numbers, they indicate a build-up of organic sludge that needs cleaning.