Fungus Gnat
Families Mycetophilidae and Sciaridae (various genera and species)
- Order & Family
- Order Diptera (true flies), Families Mycetophilidae (fungus gnats) and Sciaridae (dark-winged fungus gnats)
- Size
- 2-8 mm (adults)
Natural Habitat
Damp, shaded environments rich in decaying organic matter, such as forests, greenhouses, and potted plant soil. Indoors, they are commonly found near houseplants and areas with high humidity.
Diet & Feeding
Adult fungus gnats typically feed on liquids, such as nectar, water, or honeydew. Larvae feed on fungi, decaying plant matter, and sometimes the roots of plants.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are weak flyers and often seen hovering around plants or windows. They are attracted to light and moisture. Females lay eggs in moist soil, and larvae develop in the soil, feeding on organic material. Their life cycle from egg to adult is usually 3-4 weeks.
Risks & Benefits
Potential risks include being a nuisance, especially indoors, and larvae can damage plant roots, particularly in young seedlings or unhealthy plants, leading to wilting, stunted growth, or plant death. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. Benefits include contributing to the decomposition of organic matter in ecosystems.