| Sciarid Fly |
 Fungus gnats (Sciaridae) are a difficult pest, especially in young plant material. They can cause damage to seedlings, rootstock and cuttings of many plant species. Sciarid flies are often found in moist, organic environments.BiologyFungus gnats go through seven stages, namely egg, four larval stages, pupa and adult fly. Adults are noticed when they appear in large numbers. Eggs are deposited in the soil. Larvae generally eat rotting plant material, algae and fungi that are present in or on the soil. Pupation takes place in the soil as well. SymptomsDirect damage can occur to young and/or weak plants in a moist, organic environment, whan larvae chew the plant's roots. This reduces the uptake of water and nutrients, causing the plants to die. Strong plants are only affected at very high level of infection. SolutionsENTOMITE - Hypoaspis aculeifer |
