
Community identification
Non-biting midge
Chironomus plumosus
- Order & Family
- Order: Diptera; Family: Chironomidae
- Size
- Typically 1 to 10 millimeters in length
Natural Habitat
Found near aquatic environments like lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands. They are frequently attracted to outdoor lighting at night.
Diet & Feeding
Adults do not feed and have a very short lifespan. Larvae (known as bloodworms) feed on organic detritus and microorganisms in the water.
Behavior Patterns
Males often form large aerial swarms to attract females for mating. They are highly attracted to light sources and are most active at dusk and dawn.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite or sting and are harmless to humans. They are beneficial to the ecosystem as they serve as a critical food source for fish, birds, and other insects.