Dark-winged Fungus Gnat vs Owl Midge

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Dark-winged Fungus Gnat Owl Midge
Scientific Name Sciara hemerobioides Clogmia albipunctata
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Mycetophilidae Psychodidae
Size 4-6 mm 2-5 mm
Habitat Woodlands Underground
Diet Fungus Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe Cosmopolitan
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Dark-winged Fungus Gnat

A small, dark fungus gnat with smoky wings and long slender antennae. Its larvae are known for forming spectacular marching columns of thousands of individuals.

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Did You Know?

Larvae form army-like processions of thousands marching in columns across forest floors, a phenomenon called 'Heerwurm' in German.

Owl Midge

A small fuzzy moth-like fly found in bathrooms and drains worldwide. Its larvae feed on gelatinous films of bacteria inside drainage pipes.

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Did You Know?

Despite living in unsanitary conditions, it is not known to transmit any diseases to humans.