(Sciaridae)
Biology:
Fungus gnats are small, delicate, mostly black-colored insects with a length of approx. 1 to 6 mm. They are very active and often cavort on the soil of flower pots and around the pots themselves. The females lay their eggs in the soil. The slender, elongated larvae are translucent white and have a black head. They live in potting soil and decaying substrates and feed primarily on decomposing organic matter and fungal mycelium.
Damage:
In heavy infestations, the larvae of fungus gnats can also attack living plant tissue and cause damage to various useful and ornamental plants as well as mushroom cultures. The adult mosquitoes can sometimes become annoying and unpleasant as they fly around rooms, flower windows and flower pots.
Tip:
Excessive watering should be avoided as it is conducive to the development of fungus gnats. A significant reduction in infestation can be achieved by using commercially available yellow traps (sticky traps).
