Eliminating Fungus Gnats from your bioactive terrarium

Fungus gnats can be an extremely irritating pest that can find their way into your bioactive habitat. Usually, gnats appear when the substrate is too wet throughout, potentially lacks aeration from top to bottom; or old food was left in the habitat for too long drawing the pests to the enclosure. There are many ways to alleviate these pesky critters and here are some of the actions that you can take to get rid of them.

1. Allow the substrate to dry out on the top layer and have the middle and bottom layer evaporate out excess moisture over time. During this time, it is not a bad idea to sift your soil thoroughly to speed up the aeration process. To facilitate the drying out process, cut back misting substantially and if required, perform warm soaks on the inhabitants if required. Be sure to not let your bioactive vivarium dry out completely as that may harm your established clean up crew.

2. In the outside of the bioactive terrarium, install sticky fly traps. They are drawn to it and it will help alleviate the excessive population outside the habitat.

3. You can completely remove the soil from the habitat and freeze it for an extended period of time. This will kill everything in the soil, making it inert. Once thawed and back at room temperature, you can try again with a fresh start.

4. Add beneficial nematodes. These nematodes (steinernema feltiae) are microscopic worms that feed on the larvae of the fungus gnats. Add them to your substrate according to the instructions on the packaging. This species should not harm your beneficial clean up crew.

5. Avoid overfeeding and leaving old food in the enclosure. Pull carcass’ or uneaten food within 24 hours.

6. Maintain excellent ventilation and pay attention to your moisture content in your substrate. Ensure you are providing a good substrate that provides adequate airflow with your soil + inside your habitat is key to preventing and removing these pests.

Many times, these pests will come during the colder months of the year seeking a warm, humid refuge. Taking the above steps when setting up and maintaining your bioactive terrarium can be extremely useful for short and long term applications. If you have more questions, reach out to us at customercare@thebiodude.com