Chironomidae
Pronunciation: [Chi·ro·NOM⋅i⋅dae]
Common Name: Midges
Description: Midge larvae are plentiful in decaying matter, under bark, or burrowing within moist ground. Adults possess chewing mouthparts with short palps and plumose antennae. Most often they are seen flying in large groups. Some species of the aquatic larvae are red in color, due to the presence of hemoglobin in the blood. These larvae are known as blood worms. In general, the larvae serve as an important component in the dietary desires of predaceous insects.
Spot ID Key Characters:
- Plumose antennae (both sexes)
- Chewing mouthparts with short palps
- Long slender legs
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Order: Diptera
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