Drain Fly Larva
Scientific Name: Psychodidae family (e.g., Clogmia albipunctata)
Order & Family: Order Diptera; Family Psychodidae
Size: Typically 1/8 to 3/8 inch (4mm to 10mm) in length.
Natural Habitat
Found in organic slime and moist environments such as plumbing drains, sewers, septic tanks, and damp compost.
Diet & Feeding
They feed on decaying organic matter, algae, fungi, and bacteria that make up the 'biofilm' inside pipes and drains.
Behavior Patterns
The larvae live within the gelatinous film layer of drains. They are highly resilient to soap and hot water, breathing through small tubes that break the surface of the slime.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans and do not bite. They act as decomposers by breaking down organic sludge, but their presence in large numbers indicates a need for pipe cleaning. Rarely, they can transport bacteria from drains to food surfaces.
Identified on: 3/12/2026