Why does your Cymbidium macrorhizon have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The tiny black flies are likely fungus gnat adults, which lay eggs in the moist organic matter of the orchid substrate. The larvae feed on decaying roots and fungal mycelia, potentially causing secondary rot in Cymbidium rhizomes.
Constant moisture in the bark or moss medium provides the ideal breeding ground for fungus gnat larvae. In Cymbidium macrorhizon, excessive wetness can also lead to root suffocation and rhizome decay.
As orchid bark or sphagnum moss breaks down, it creates a nutrient-rich compost that attracts flies and supports larval growth. This breakdown process often coincides with the loss of aeration necessary for Cymbidium root health.