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  • Moth Fly Flies

    Moth Fly
  • Moth Fly
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Elimination

The first step in getting rid of these flies is to identify their source. They often come from the accumulation of organic matter in drains, allowing eggs to be laid. By carefully cleaning these areas, we can generally solve the problem. For this, a good brushing of the walls of the pipes with a suitable cleaning product is sufficient. Don’t forget to also clean the overflow openings of the sinks, baths and sinks.

If the flies are very numerous, regular removal of adults using physical methods such as suction or traps can complete the cleaning.

Seek the intervention of a professional specialized in plumbing if the problem persists despite the cleaning carried out; the issue may be more profound.

Actions

  • Clean and brush drains, pipes, and overflow outlets
  • Request assistance from one of our pest management experts

Prevention

  • Take care of drains to prevent surface buildup of organic matter
  • Repair and dry up after water leaks quickly

Description and development

The moth fly is a holometabolous insect (having four very different life stages) in the Psychodidae family of the Diptera order. It is a very small fly, generally 1 mm to 5 mm long. It is covered in silvery-gray hairs, giving it the appearance of a small moth. Its wings are quite broad and oblong, which prevents it from flying long distances.
Moth flies lay their eggs in clumps of 30 to 100 eggs. The eggs hatch within 48 hours. The larvae and pupae develop in organic matter, such as silt clinging to the walls of water pipes and drains. The larvae take between 9 and 15 days to develop, but the pupal stage lasts only 20 to 40 hours. The emerging adult is sexually mature and can reproduce.

Habits

If moth flies develop indoors, it is generally due to silty drains. Silt often builds up drains (in basement floors, sinks, baths, and showers, etc.) that are rarely used. The adults can be seen flying nearby, and their presence may signal a damaged pipe or sewer backup.

For more information on Moth Fly, please read issue 23 of our technical newsletter The Gatekeeper.

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