Moth Flies
Drain Flies
Filter Flies
Sewage Flies
Moth Flies are very small and have a furry, moth like appearance, hence the name. The resemblence is so close, it often confuses humans into thinking it's a tiny moth. They can pass through screening or can be carried by the wind to new areas for breeding.
- Fly Species
- drain flies, filter flies, sewage flies
- Family: Psychodidae
- Size
- Identify
- Small and covered with hairs giving it a "moth" like appearance.
- Long furry antennae.
- Light tan colored body with lighter colored wings that are faintly spotted with black and white.
- Furry broad or slender "leaf shaped" wings.
- Some species may have brownish-gray wings.
- Life Cycle
- The entire life cycle is around 8-24 days.
- Larvae feeds for up to 15 days and then pupates for 20-40 hours.
- Adults are sexually mature on emergence and copulates within a few hours.
- Breeding
- Wet areas, often with low oxygen.
- Typically drains containing sediment, small decaying matter, and microscopic plants and animals.
- Sewage treatment plants are also a primary source as they feed on the algae on the filter stones and drain pipes.
- Infestations can occur following a drain break or leak under slabs, or in facilities where water, grease, and other materials accumulate under equipment and washing centers.
- Congregation
- Annoying in homes and facilities around sinks and drains.
- Typically get into living spaces during the cold seasons, trying to find a warmth.
- Moth flies are strongly attracted to light, so you can find them around windows, or lamps and other light sources at night.
- Travel
- Winds can carry these small flies up to 1 mile away, sending infestations from sewage plants to other areas.
- Health Importance
- Because they breed and visit unsanitary areas, moth flies can potentially transmit bacteria and microorganisms onto food intended for human consumption, or in sterile areas like hospitals.
- Eggs and larvae are hard to see and can unknowingly be eaten by humans.
- Despite the small size, the Moth Fly family Psychodidae are able to inject venom through human skin. It is a very small amount and usually does not amount to a fatal dose
- How to Kill / Control
- To get rid of moth flies, drain flies:
- Eliminate breeding grounds
- Sanitation
- Moisture Control
- Use Fly Traps and Fly Sprays to kill adult flies
- View our Fly Control page for extended information on these methods.
- Extra Info
- Moth fly larvae can live submerged for nearly 2 days. They can create a small air bubble and carry it down under the water with them.
|
|
