non-biting midges

Chironomini is a diverse tribe of non-biting midges (Family Chironomidae). There are 49 genera worldwide, at least 12 of which occur in Minnesota. They are usually found, often in large swarms, hovering above a body of water or a damp area. The larvae of most species are aquatic and live in tubes constructed of debris. Adults are short-lived. It has long been thought that adults do not feed. Recent research demonstrates that adults of at least some species feed on nectar, pollen, honeydew, and fly droppings. As the family name suggests, they do not bite.

Chironomini are soft-bodied insects with long legs and long antennae. They look like mosquitoes but do not have long extended mouthparts. They have two compound eyes but no simple eyes (ocelli). The antennae on the male are feather-like (plumose). The wings are long and narrow, and are usually not hairy. The anterior cross vein, between the last radial vein (R₅) and medial vein (M), is at a distinct angle to R₅. The distance between R₅ and the wingtip is equal to the distance between M and the wingtip.

Sources

24, 27, 30, 82.

This tribe has no common name. The common name for the family is non-biting midges, and it is applied here for convenience.

Location: Albany, NY

Location: Albany, NY

Location: Cass County