The Drain Flies

Drain flies, Psychodinae, Filter flies in English, or more commonly known as moths, are part of the diptera family and usually lay their eggs in very humid places such as water drains. The exhaust fly is very small, dark brown or black, and is distinguished from the others by small veins on the wings. Their bodies are covered with hair and, if squeezed, they leave a dusty spot. This species of fly is often confused with the fruit fly, the fertilizer fly or the phorids.


Habits and nutrition

Drain flies nest in drains, sewers, septic tanks, and soils where there is decaying organic material. Hair in drains is one of the causes of a Psychodinae infestation. The larvae originating from eggs survive both low and high temperatures and this is why it is difficult to eliminate them. The only positive note is that, by feeding on the organic material inside the drains, the larvae often avoid fillings inside them.

Because they are harmful to humans

Not infrequently drain flies infest the bathrooms of homes. They do not bite and are harmless, but they can transmit bacteria to the places where they have nested. In the event of a suspected infestation, it is advisable to check the shower first: this is where most of the time drain flies, given the high humidity, create their nests. Frequently cleaning the drains and intervening at the same time as adult flies are spotted is the best way to prevent an infestation or to implement an ad hoc pest control.





Check for flies in the drain

If you suspect that psychodinae have invaded your drains, apply scotch tape to the drain hole in your sink or shower before going to sleep. In the morning, check the duct tape - if flies are present, some will surely be on the glue part. In principle, it is always good to clean the drains in the bathrooms to remove hair to avoid invasion. You can use vinegar and baking soda combined with boiling water or a specific gel for cleaning pipes. The important thing is to ensure that adult flies do not find fertile ground for nesting.
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