Drain Fly Larva

Scientific Name: Psychoda spp.

Order & Family: Diptera: Psychodidae

Size: 3 mm to 6 mm (0.1 to 0.25 inches) in length.

Drain Fly Larva

Natural Habitat

Moist environments rich in organic matter, such as drains, sewer pipes, septic tanks, and wet soil.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on the gelatinous film of bacteria, fungi, and decomposing organic material found in drains.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae live submerged in slime or film; they breathe through a small tube at their tail. They undergo multiple molts before pupating and emerging as adult flies.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans, though they can be minor household nuisances. In the ecosystem, they are beneficial as decomposers that help break down organic waste.

Identified on: 1/1/2026