Common Fungus Gnat vs Rat Flea
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Fungus Gnat | Rat Flea |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Bradysia impatiens | Xenopsylla brasiliensis |
| Order | Diptera | Siphonaptera |
| Family | Mycetophilidae | Pulicidae |
| Size | 2-4 mm | 1.5-2.5 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Cosmopolitan | Africa, South America, India |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Fungus Gnat
A small, delicate dark fly with long legs and antennae that commonly infests houseplant soil. Adults are weak fliers that hover near potted plants and are attracted to light.
Did You Know?
Fungus gnats are one of the most common houseplant pests worldwide, with larvae damaging roots of seedlings.
Rat Flea
A tropical rat flea found across Africa and South America that can transmit plague. It is second to the oriental rat flea in importance as a plague vector.
Did You Know?
Despite its name suggesting Brazilian origin, it is most commonly found on rats throughout sub-Saharan Africa.