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Life Cycle
Gnats lay tiny eggs on soil, usually in clusters but they have been known to lay single eggs. After approximately four days, the eggs hatch into larvae which are white with black heads. As they mature they become more transparent and within two weeks they spin cocoons in the soil. Their time spent in the cocoon, known as the pupal stage, is one week long. After a week the gnat emerges and begins to mate, as they have only one week to live. In one week alone, female gnats can lay up to 150 eggs, allowing the cycle to continue.
Gnat Food
Some gnat species can cause plant damage as they will feed on live plant matter or tender roots, but others eat only fungus or decaying matter in the soil. When species such as the gall gnat do attack plants, lumps will form on the plants. Sometimes it might feel like humans are the main food source for gnats as some, such as the black fly, can cause painful bites. Other gnats, such as fruit flies, eat rotting fruit and can dominate a fruit bowl.
Gnat Predators
Gnats are part of the food chain themselves and are prey to many different types of spiders. If you have a gnat problem in your home, don't discourage spiders (as long as they are not harmful to you) as this may greatly reduce their numbers. Lizards and bats also eat gnats, so letting a few geckos roam your house might help reduce your gnat numbers as well.
Preventing a Gnat Infestation in Your Home
If you are having an ongoing problem with gnats in your home, start taking preventative measures. Gnats are attracted to overly ripe fruits and vegetables, so keep these in your fridge and discard them when they are no longer good. Indoor compost bins also attract gnats, so empty yours frequently. Plants which have been over-watered may have root rot, another attraction for gnats.