Drain Fly Larva

Found in organic slime and moist environments such as plumbing drains, sewers, septic tanks, and damp compost.

They feed on decaying organic matter, algae, fungi, and bacteria that make up the 'biofilm' inside pipes and drains.

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.

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.