Institut für ökologische Chemie, Pflanzenanalytik und Vorratsschutz
Fungus gnats can be a significant problem in organic cultivation of potted plants. Due to a high percentage of peat substitutes and organic fertilization, growing media used in organic production are very attractive for fungus gnats and encourage mass reproduction. Subsequently, the feeding activity of larvae at the roots and stems causes severe damages. Additionally, adults might spread pathogenic fungi. For the control of fungus gnats nematodes, predatory ground mites as well as Bacillus thuringiensis preparations can be used. However, if the infestation pressure is very high, the success of these control measures is often limited. In such cases, strategies that are more comprehensive are urgently needed.The research project addresses two main goals: the first aim is to elucidate whether some growing media are far more attractive to fungus gnats than others are. The second goal is to establish comprehensive strategies for biological control of fungus gnats. This will involve optimizing the use of nematodes and soil mites and testing new beneficial organisms.
Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture
