What Are Gnats?

We’ve all been there before. You’re enjoying a lovely summer evening outside when suddenly a cloud of flying insects materializes from out of nowhere, turning your tranquility into torment. It’s gnats. You know them well – or at least, you thought you did. But what are gnats, really?

As it turns out, when people talk about gnats, there are many different species they may be talking about. “Gnat” encompasses a diverse family of insects, each with its own habits and habitats. Basically, they’re tiny flies. They’re so small that the average person can’t tell the difference, so we refer to them collectively as gnats.

In the Southeastern United States, where Lookout Pest Control is located, some common gnats include fungus gnats, fruit flies, black flies, no-see-ums, eye gnats, drain flies, and phorid flies.

What Makes a “Gnat” a Gnat?

These insects share some fundamental characteristics: they’re small, they fly, and they often go unnoticed until they’re buzzing around your face or landing in your food.

However, not all gnats are the same. Some bite while others are content to simply hover and annoy. Some breed in damp corners of your home, others in the lush vegetation outside.

Common characteristics of gnats

• Extremely small size
• Preference for moist environments
• Ability to reproduce quickly
• Tendency to gather in groups

Types of Insects Commonly Called Gnats

The term “gnat” isn’t a scientific designation, but rather a broad term that encompasses many tiny flying insects. From the soil-loving fungus gnats that plague indoor gardeners to the fruit-obsessed flies that seemingly materialize around ripening produce, there are many types of gnats that thrive in many types of environments.

Here are some of the most common in the Southeastern United States:

• Fungus Gnats: Typically dark and tiny, if you’ve ever noticed gnats around your indoor potted plants, there’s a good chance they were fungus gnats. These small flies hover around houseplants, with larvae that thrive in moist soil, feeding on fungus and organic matter.
• Fruit Flies: Fruit flies are frequently grouped into this category. These small, tan or light brown insects are drawn to ripe or fermenting fruits, making kitchens their favorite hunting ground.
• Black Flies (Black Gnats): Dark-colored and often found near water sources, black flies can be found in wooded or marshy areas. Some species are harmless, while others are known for delivering painful bites.
• No-See-Ums (Biting Midges): Incredibly tiny and nearly invisible, these biting insects can easily pass through window screens. Found in warm, humid environments, they’re infamous for their disproportionately painful bites.
• Eye Gnats: Attracted to moisture around eyes and noses, these small flies are a nuisance in warm, humid areas. They typically don’t bite but can be incredibly annoying.
• Drain Flies: Fuzzy, moth-like flies that breed in the organic matter accumulated in drains, sewers, and other moist areas. Their presence often indicates underlying moisture or sanitation issues.
• Phorid Flies: Also called “humpbacked flies,” these tiny insects are commonly found around decaying organic matter. They’re characterized by a short, erratic flight pattern and are smaller than fruit flies.

Are Gnats Dangerous? 

Like many kinds of pests, gnats are known spreaders of bacteria, so the greatest dangers stem from that. Biting gnats like no-see-ums can also potentially carry dangerous diseases and pathogens, but that’s extremely rare. Most gnats are more of a nuisance than a serious threat:

• Biting midges can deliver painful bites
• Some species can spread bacteria
• Certain gnats may indicate hygiene or moisture problems in your environment

How to Get Rid of Gnats

Understanding these tiny terrors is the first step in reclaiming your space — and your sanity. Here are some ways you can eliminate gnats and make your property less attractive to them:

• Eliminate standing water and excess moisture
• Store fruits and vegetables properly
• Ensure good drainage around your home
• Use fly traps or natural repellents
• Maintain clean kitchen and bathroom areas

For more information, check out our full-length articles on How to Get Rid of Gnats and How to Get Rid of No-See-Ums.

Gnat Control for Your Home or Business

Gnats might be small, but their irritation level is off the charts. From fungus gnats who won’t leave your houseplants alone to no-see-ums ruining your outdoor relaxation, these tiny flying insects can quickly overtake your living spaces. 

At Lookout Pest Control, our gnat control technicians are trained to identify, target, and eliminate the specific gnat species invading your home or business, using cutting-edge techniques tailored to the unique environments of the Southeast. 

Don’t let tiny gnats have an oversized impact on your life. Call Lookout Pest Control now for an estimate on gnat control service – or if you have any questions.