Where are fungus gnats typically found?

Fungus gnats are primarily associated with damp soil and decaying organic matter, which makes potted plants and the soil in which they grow their typical habitat. These insects thrive in environments that provide moisture and organic material, as their larvae feed on the roots and organic matter present in the soil. This preference for moist, nutrient-rich environments is why they are commonly found in potted plants, particularly when those plants are overwatered or maintained in high humidity conditions.

Other environments such as wood piles, open fields, or underneath rocks do not typically provide the specific conditions that fungus gnats require for breeding and development, which revolves around wet, organic-rich substrates. Such areas may host other types of pests or insects that have different habitat preferences.