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Fungus Gnats (Bradysia spp.)
Fungus gnats are small, dark flies whose larvae feed on fungi and organic matter in the soil of potted plants, occasionally damaging roots and stunting plant growth, particularly in seedlings. Adults are weak fliers that hover around plants and windows and are most often a nuisance in homes and greenhouses. Overwatering is the primary contributing factor, as it creates the moist, fungus-rich soil conditions larvae require. Allowing soil to dry between waterings, applying beneficial nematodes, and using yellow sticky traps effectively controls fungus gnat populations.