Order: Diptera

Family: Sciaridae & Mycetophilidae

The Fungus gnat gets its common name because fungi serve as their major food source. There are two different families of Fungus gnats mostly distinguishable by the color of their wings. The two families have a total of over 850 species found throughout the United States and Canada.

Description: The adult Fungus gnat is less than 1/8 inch long. These gnats are considered somewhat mosquito-like in appearance because of their long legs in comparison to their body size. They are generally black, brown or yellowish in color.

Biology: Female adult Fungus gnats lay their eggs in larval food material. The eggs hatch within a few days. Egg to adult developmental time is about two weeks.

Habits: Fungus gnats found in the interior of structures are most likely due to over-watered potted plants. They will also be found in other moisture laden areas where fungus may be present such as water leaks, bird cages that are not cleaned in a timely manner, or dirt crawl spaces which are high in moisture. Fungus gnats can be found on the exterior in mulched areas, decaying wood piles, or in the nests of birds or squirrels.