Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi Jeff. I have a question that I thought you might be able to answer. I have been working with Orchids and Ferns in my basement under T5 High output lights and I have been plauged by an infestation of Fungus Gnats. I have been trying BTI and all sorts of things including letting the medium dry as much as is possible without luck. My question is that I am finding Gnats are being attracted to the full spectrum lites over my cages, some with moist hides of Cypress mulch and I'm finding drowned gnats in my water bowls. I know the gnats can spread disease to other plants but do you think there is a danger to my snakes?
Thanks, Hope all is well.
Bob.

Hello Bob,

While fungus gnats can act as a vector for a variety of plant diseases, such as Cylindrocladium, Pythium, Scelerotinia and Verticillium, I do not believe such pose that great of a threat to your Drys, as even among plants, it is generally the younger, more vulnerable specimens that are at risk. However, I do realize what an eyesore and pest such can be.
Since you are already keeping Orchids, have you given consideration to adding a few Hymenopus coronatus (Orchid Mantis) among your Orchid collection? They are quite amazing little gems, though will require care as well, but nymphs are great at helping to keep gnats at a minimum and the mantis look wonderful among Orchids. You can also use Parasitic nematodes available commercially as BioSys, Ecomask, Exhibit, Guardian nematodes and others. Predatory mites, such as Hypoaspis spp. will work as well. Also, microbial insecticides are an option and Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis aka:Gnatrol will work as well…

Best regards,

Jeff

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Jeff Snodgres
University of Arkansas
snodgresjeffreys@uams.edu
501.603.1947

np

Wow, good answer Jeff!

Now, how in the heck does one raise crickets?

How's dry breeding season progressing?

Thanks Mike,

Do you really wanna know about raising crickets? ;0)

The season is progressing well and several females have already gone through their pre-oviposition ecdysis, so I expect to have eggs within teh next week or two, from the YT and BT females. While the Rubidus and Texan females should begin their pre-oviposition ecdysis in another two - three weeks.
by teh way, that male Texan you sent me is doing phenomenally well and I look forward to returning the favor this year, just let me know what you would like...

Thanks again,

Jeff
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Jeff Snodgres
University of Arkansas
snodgresjeffreys@uams.edu
501.603.1947