This research identified a natural bacterial protein that can safely control fungus gnats – a major pest affecting mushroom farms. The protein comes from a soil bacterium and specifically kills the pest insects without harming the mushrooms or leaving harmful residues. Impacts on everyday life: – Provides organic farmers with an environmentally-friendly pest control option – Helps ensure safer mushroom production without chemical pesticide residues – Could lead to lower costs and better quality for mushroom consumers – Demonstrates sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides in agriculture – Supports local mushroom farmers’ ability to control pests effectively