Why does your Capsicum baccatum have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The tiny black flies are likely the adult stage of fungus gnats, whose larvae thrive in the moist organic matter of pepper potting soil. They feed on decaying roots and can cause secondary damage to the Aji pepper's root system by feeding on fine root hairs.
Certain species of small flies, known as gall midges, target Capsicum plants to lay eggs on tender new growth. This can lead to distorted leaves or small swellings on the stems of the Aji pepper.
If the Aji pepper is kept in a highly humid environment or near stagnant water, drain flies may migrate to the plant. While they don't feed on the plant directly, their presence indicates an ecosystem of excess moisture and organic decay.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: