
Community identification
Drain Fly Larva
Psychodidae family
- Order & Family
- Order Diptera, Family Psychodidae
- Size
- 3 to 10 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Moist, organic-rich environments such as sink drains, sewers, septic tanks, and damp soil.
Diet & Feeding
Decomposing organic matter, algae, bacteria, and fungi found in gelatinous films (biofilm) in drains.
Behavior Patterns
They live within the slime layer of drains, breathing through a small tube at their posterior end; they eventually pupate and emerge as fuzzy, moth-like flies.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite or sting and are generally harmless, but their presence indicates a buildup of organic material or possible plumbing issues; in large numbers, they can be a nuisance.