What do gnats look like?

Gnats are small flying insects that are black in color. They have elongated abdomens, transparent wings and long, thin legs. The wing are typically veined but invisible to the human eye. Gnats appear to be almost perfectly round when flying, with few features distinguishable apart from their color.

Viewed closely, gnats look similar to common mosquitoes in shape and body structure. Their heads sit closely on the thorax, with the wings centered. The abdomen trails out behind and can be held up or down if the insect is in flight. Gnats are common around moist, overwatered houseplant soil and kitchen and bathroom drains with standing water.