fungus gnat

Soil-dwelling flying insect

A fungus gnat is a small flying insect whose larvae feed on fungi and decaying organic matter in soil.

They're a common nuisance around houseplants, hovering near potted plants and damp surfaces: The fungus gnats were thriving in my overwatered fern.

Harmless to humans but annoying indoors, they indicate overly moist soil conditions.

pest

larvae

Immature metamorphosing creatures

neem oil · hydrogen peroxide · diatomaceous earth · pyrethrin · biological control · indoor plants · seedlings · greenhouses · root damage · wilting

insect

larvae

Immature metamorphosing creatures

  • antennaeSensory appendages on insects
  • wingsLimbs for flight
  • flyTwo-winged buzzing insect

diptera · arthropod · invertebrate · pupa · midge · life cycle · maggot · adult · egg · exoskeleton

decomposer

organic matter

Material from living sources

soil · humus · moisture · damp · leaf litter · decomposition · mulch · peat · detritus

Categories
Opposites
pest insect type confusion

fungus gnatfruit fly

Small insect near produce

drain fly · whitefly · aphid

beneficial vs. pest insects in gardens

fungus gnatpollinator

Pollen-transferring organism

beneficial insect · ladybug · lacewing · honeybee

Family

fungus, gnat, fungi, fungal, gnats, fungicide, fungicides, mycologist, fungicidal

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G