What's eating my spike moss?

Spike Moss (Selaginella kraussiana) is a low-growing moisture-loving plant rarely troubled by serious pests. Fungus gnats are the most common problem, breeding in its persistently damp soil. Spider mites may attack if humidity drops below 50%. Mealybugs occasionally colonise dense mats. Keeping the growing medium moist but not waterlogged and humidity high prevents most issues.

Larvae damage fine surface roots in constantly moist compost; plants yellow and wilt despite watering Improve drainage; allow a very brief surface dry between waterings; apply Bti drench; use yellow sticky traps

Bronzed, dried-out stems; fine webbing across the mat if air is too dry Raise humidity with a cloche or terrarium setup; spray undersides with insecticidal soap

White cottony deposits among dense stem mats; yellowing patches where colonies develop Dab affected areas with 70% isopropyl alcohol; apply dilute neem oil spray; thin dense mats to improve airflow