No-see-um

Moist soils, marshes, swamps, and areas with decaying organic matter.

Females typically feed on human and animal blood to develop eggs; both sexes consume nectar.

Crepuscular (most active at dawn and dusk), known for a painful 'burning' bite that is disproportionate to their small size.

Risks include painful, itchy bites and potential for transmission of certain parasites or viruses in some regions; they serve as a food source for larger insects and aquatic life.