Drain flies

Drain flies Pesky insects but non-biting gnats related to drains, sewers and seldom-used workshop sink; these insects thrive on moisture, shallow water, particularly near sources of food or organic maters like sumps, sinks or showers. These flies are known as drain flies, sewers flies or moth flies. throughout this article, we will see the identification, seriousness, life cycle, and how to get rid of these insects.

Identification of Drain Flies

These flies have six legs, two wings of scale and long and curved antennae on their heads. their bodies are covered with numerous hairs. If you crushed these wings, it will leave powdery smudge. They measure about 2 to 5 mm long. They are black or brown in color. Drain flies cannot fly very well, so they jump from surface to another. 

Seriousness of Drain Flies

Numbers play a dangerous role in life of these insects though they do not bite people. As the female of drain fly lays from 30 to 100 eggs at one time. These insects are a nuisance because their large numbers of infestation. Their numbers can block pipes, once enter, and transmit bacteria from the dirt they live in, so they may contaminate the food in this process. Although they live in filth places, they do not spread any diseases to humans. 

Infestations Signs of Drain Flies

As most flies, adults are the most noticeable sign of drain flies infest. Typically, they are seen resting in the walls in bathroom, kitchens and near the breeding materials. You can also see larvae on the breeding materials, it can be observed by its wriggling move. 

LIFE Cycle of Drain Flies

Females of drain flies lay their eggs anywhere that contains decomposing organic materials. They deposit their eggs in irregular masses. When eggs hatch, white translucent larvae emerge. These larvae can survive during the climate of dramatic temperature swings and low levels of oxygen. Under propitious conditions, the flies can go through one generation in one week or less.

The homeowners rarely see larvae of drain flies because they are found in the gelatinous film inside drains. Although drains sometimes are taken apart, larvae can be found in the film. Larvae may be considered beneficial because they break down materials that block drain pipes. By their strong jaws, they can cut courses or layers of thick ooze and build-up.

When the larvae grow enough, the pupae emerge or rest till they emerge as adults. The only stage that can be observed is the adult stage. Adult flies usually live for about 2 weeks. 

Where these flies live?

These insects attract to places that contains organic materials which form their food. So from what their names suggest, drain flies live in drains, sewers, moist soil, houses and storm drains. They can also be located near decaying logs and compost piles.

What do they eat?

Drain flies eat organic matter, rotting food and sewage.

How to Get Rid of Drain Flies?

If you have drain flies in your home and want to control these flies, you should eliminate their breeding sites. One of the most effective control way is to clean drain pipes and trapes by removing accumulated mud. Pouring hot water can help and give a short-term control. It is difficult to drown the larvae of drain flies because they can trap air bubbles and remain under water for one day or more. Pouring insecticides down drains is not an effective method to kill drain flies. 

our company in Jeddah provide trained and professional team of experts to help manage drain flies and similar insects. Because the variety of all buildings and houses, our team will design a unique solution for your situation.