GNAT FLY INFORMATION & FACTS

The gnat is a long-legged insect that can grow anywhere from 1 to 13 mm. Gnat is a general term used to describe an array of small winged insects in the fly family. A gnat can be black, grey, brown, or yellow in colour and they are generally weak fliers.

Depending on the species of gnat fly, some are non-biters while others bite and feed on blood, other insects or plants. Fungus gnats are the most common gnat fly found indoors. Adult fungus gnats feed on a variety of plants, while fungus gnat larvae feed mostly on fungi, plant roots or other plant matter.

Female gnats can lay up to 500 eggs in a lifetime and depend on the presence of moisture, such as that found in moist soil, to help their offspring grow.

To make your home less attractive to the gnat fly, practice proper gnat control indoors. Get rid of spoiled food right away and store all produce in sealed containers or the refrigerator. Don’t leave dirty dishes lying around. Make sure trash stored in garbage bins are covered with a secure lid. Avoid overwatering indoor plants.