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Tiny black speck bugs in kitchen sink #400928

Asked May 18, 2017, 9:49 PM EDT

Hello experts, Am hoping for some insight into what these little specks are in/around my kitchen sink. Three days ago they started showing up in and around my kitchen sink after having set a mug of old potting soil next to the sink the night before. I don't remember what kind of plant was in it before, but it had been "just dirt" for a while, and set it there thinking of washing it out and using it as a mug. Next day these specks were all over the sink and counter. Been spraying everywhere with Lysol general purpose cleaner, and killing every one I can see. Tried cleaning the sink with hot soapy water, running the disposal regularly, they still keep showing up, albeit in much smaller numbers than initially. Attached are pictures showing the bug, the size, and the brown smear they make when squished. I'm hoping for some inexpensive solution ideas, any and all insight is welcome! Thank you :) Andy

Anchorage County Alaska

Expert Response

We can't really tell what you have based on the pictures provided.  If the bugs originated from soil they could be fungus gnats, which are fairly easy to catch with a small amount of juice or vinegar in a dish that can be left out in the area. That should bring the numbers down substantially. However, as mentioned it is hard to tell what those insects are from the pictures provided so I don't know that it will work. 
An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 23, 2017, 6:07 PM EDT

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