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What is a gnat?

Updated: 10/8/2023
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6y ago

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Gnat is the common name for many small, winged insects in the fly grouping. Contrary to popular belief, these tiny flying insects are not "babies," they are adults.
It is a small two winged fly similar to a mosquito. they for large swarms and include biting and non biting forms

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6y ago
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12y ago

A gnat is in the order of Dipterid, which is the same order that includes flies, mosquitoes, maggots and other species of insects possessing a single pair of wings. So, yes, a gnat is one of the many species of tiny flying insects categorized as flies.

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8y ago

Although it is easy to assume this-& we all have wondered it at one time, gnats are not "baby flies," but their own distinct species. Latin Name Order Diptera Several Families and Species Appearance Gnats typically are small and long-legged insects. They often are weak fliers. Behavior, Diet & Habits Gnat is the common name for many small, winged insects in the fly grouping. Contrary to popular belief, these tiny flying insects are not "babies," they are adults. The tiny flying insects that many people call "gnats" could really be fruit flies or fungus gnats. Depending on species, gnats can be biting or nonbiting and will feed on plants, other insects or blood. Reproduction For some species, males assemble in large mating swarms known as ghosts. These swarms occur most commonly at dusk in large fields and above streets. Depending on the species, gnat eggs are laid on land or water. Larvae may be immobile or capable of movement by way of rocks and water plants. Adults range in size but usually are no larger than 33 mm. The larval and adult stages of the gnat are considered both beneficial and detrimental. Some species are excellent plant pollinators and feed on crop pests such as aphids and scales. Other gnats, such as the Hessian fly, are crop pests themselves. Females of some species, such as the black gnat or black fly, feed on blood. These gnats have been known to carry parasites and spread diseases to humans and livestock. Due to the spread of river blindness and other health concerns, numerous programs have been established throughout the world to control gnat populations. Signs of a Gnat Infestation The main sign of gnats are the sightings of the adults as they fly about in the air. More Information Gnat Control The best control for fungus gnats is to identify any plants that have wet soil and let that soil dry completely before the next watering. This will kill the larval stages in the soil. The adult gnats can be removed with a vacuum cleaner from windows and from around the plants. For most gnat populations, their food source must be located and corrected if possible. Fruit should not be exposed to open air. Keeping fruit in the refrigerator protects it from gnats and also prolongs the fruit's period of ripeness. Watering plants only when they need water will help prevent fungus gnat infestations. Schedule a pest control inspection if you are encountering difficulty ridding your home of these pests. Some Other Ways to Get Rid of Gnats Most traditionally, people use fly swatters to kill individual insects. However, the most effective methods require positive identification of insects, which is best conducted with the assistance of a pest control professional. Pesticides require careful application, as they can prove harmful to humans and pets if misapplied. Electric fly exploders that electrocute individual gnats may help to control their populations outside but also kill many beneficial insects. Inside, insect traps that are plugged into electrical outlets work by emitting ultraviolet light sources. Flying insects are attracted to this light and are caught by the sticky surface of the trap when they approach. Most of these methods address only individual, adult specimens. In order to properly treat an entire gnat infestation, including larvae, it is best to consult a pest control professional. Black Gnats Fungus Gnats Fungus Gnat Larvae Gnats in the Soil Gnat Problems While the small size of the gnat can make it appear less serious as a pest, it is important to remember that gnats reproduce quickly and populate infested areas in swarms. This is how gnats become larger problems to homeowners or apartment residents. Fungus Gnats in House Plants: Fungus gnats lay their eggs in damp soil of plants that have been overwatered. When the eggs hatch, the immature gnats feed on decomposing, organic material in the soil. These gnats are attracted to fungus that grows in the soil of houseplants that have been overwatered. Roots are commonly affected in areas infested by these gnats. Gnats feed on the roots and root hairs of plants, as well. They are most harmful to small plants, but can also destroy large plants if the plant is already unhealthy or if the gnat population is extremely large. Growers go to great lengths to prevent and eliminate gnat populations, as the damage caused by a gnat infestation can damage both ornamental and edible plants. Fruit flies lay their eggs in fruit that is overripe or fermenting. They tend to hover near fruit as they are attracted to the scent and moisture of decaying, organic material. Fruit fly females lay their eggs in the fermenting fruit. The larvae eat the fruit when they hatch.

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13y ago

Gnats are actually more mosquito-like than flie-like, they are generally smaller than most dipterids (flies and mosquitos). Gnats are only smaller than most mosquitos, they are not considered baby-flies.

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12y ago

Gnats are gnats and houseflies are houseflies. They're different species.

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12y ago

Not at all! They are young flies and will end up being normally sized.

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9y ago

A gnat is a small insect of the order Diptera, within the suborder Nematocera.

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15y ago

No, they do not.

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Is a gnat an insect?

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