Chironomid midges (2012)
Abstract
Chironomid midges (gnats) are small flies that range in size from 1/16 to 1/2inch long. They range in color from light tan to light green to nearly black, depending on the species. Midges can be confused with mosquitoes, which are similar in size, appearance and habitat; however, midges distinctly differ from mosquitoes in their feeding habits. Mosquitoes possess a long, beaklike mouthpart that is used to suck blood, whereas most midges do not even feed as adults and never take a blood meal. In addition, midges typically have 'fuzzy' antenna, a characteristic found, to a lesser extent, only in male mosquitoes.
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