What's eating my bladderwort?

Bladderworts are aquatic or semi-aquatic carnivores that are largely self-defending — their bladder traps capture tiny invertebrates. Fungus gnats are the main nuisance in terrestrial species grown in wet peat. Algae competition in aquatic setups can outcompete rather than directly harm the plant. True insect pests are rare; water quality and algae control matter more than pest management.

Larvae in wet peat or sand medium for terrestrial species; minimal root damage but persistent adults are annoying Apply Bti drench to the terrestrial medium; yellow sticky traps for adults; keep tray water fresh

Green algae or blanketweed smothers the fine stems and bladders, blocking light and reducing trap efficiency Reduce light intensity or duration; introduce floating plants to shade the surface; remove algae manually with tweezers

Occasionally appear on aerial flower scapes above the water or medium surface; minor damage Remove by hand or fine water spray directed at scapes; infestation rarely spreads to the submerged or buried portions