| BIOLOGY:
(Sciara spp.) In the household, fungus gnats are usually found
around potted plants, because both the adult fly and the larvae require
a humid environment. The larvae can complete their development by feeding
on the wet and decaying organic matter in potting soil. The lifecycle may
be completed in about 10 days, and the adults may live about 2 weeks. The
adults usually remain close to the breeding site. |
SOLUTION:
Infestations of fungus gnats usually occur during the winter months
when houseplants may be over-watered and the moist soil provides a breeding
site for the larvae. Control can be achieved by permitting the potting
soil to completely dry between watering, this will kill the fungus gnat
larvae. |