
Community identification
Drain Fly
Psychoda
- Order & Family
- Order: Diptera; Family: Psychodidae
- Size
- 1.5 mm to 5 mm
Natural Habitat
Found in moist areas with organic buildup, such as drains, sewage treatment plants, or humid bathrooms.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae eat organic sludge and decaying matter in drains; adults feed on liquid carbohydrates like nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Poor fliers that often crawl on walls near drains. They are most active at night and have a life cycle of about 1 to 3 weeks.
Risks & Benefits
Non-biting and generally harmless to humans, though large infestations can be an annoyance. Larvae help break down organic matter in pipes, but adults can mechanically transfer bacteria from sewage to surfaces.