Virtual Exhibit on Canada's Biodiversity





back to order Diptera		 insect database

Habitat
Adults: terrestrial
Immatures: terrestrial

Feeding Habits
Adults: nectar and pollen feeding
Immatures: saprophagous

Size: 1 to 11 mm
Flight : strong flier

North American
Species: 136

Diptera Sciaridae
Dark-winged fungus gnats

Front Wings: membranous
Hind Wings: reduced to halteres
Mouthparts: sucking
Antenna Length: shorter than body
Antenna Shape: straight
Front Legs: unmodified
Hind Legs: unmodified

Special Characteristics: Sciaridae are small black, brown or yellowish flies, usually with gray or brown clouded wings. They are similar to fungus gnats but are usually smaller.

Comments: Adults are common around moist shady places. Most larvae live in fungi and some are pests in mushroom farms and greenhouses. Some feed on decaying plant material and others on animal dung. A few species feed on the root of plants, including house plants, where they can sometimes be pests in homes.

Species:
Sciara sp.

Common Name:

Feeding Habits: Larvae are scavengers.

Distribution:

Comments:
Adults of Sciara are often found on flowers.