Common Fungus Gnat vs Soldier Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Fungus Gnat | Soldier Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Bradysia impatiens | Odontomyia tigrina |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Mycetophilidae | Stratiomyidae |
| Size | 2-4 mm | 8-12 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Pollen Feeders |
| Regions | Cosmopolitan | Europe |
| 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.
Soldier Fly
A brightly colored soldier fly with aquatic larvae that filter-feed in ponds.
Did You Know?
Larvae float at the surface and breathe through a rosette of hydrophobic tail hairs.