
Community identification
Drain Fly
Psychodidae
- Order & Family
- Diptera: Psychodidae
- Size
- 2mm to 5mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found in moist areas rich in organic matter such as sink drains, sewers, septic tanks, and damp crawl spaces.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on gelatinous film (biofilm) of algae, bacteria, and fungi; adults feed primarily on nectar or liquid organic matter.
Behavior Patterns
Poor fliers that often crawl or take short, jerky flights; they are nocturnal and are frequently seen resting on walls near plumbing fixtures.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans as they do not bite; however, they can mechanically transport bacteria from sewers into living spaces if present in large numbers.