MIDGE

also called Chironomid, Nonbiting Midge, or Gnat (family Chironomidae), any of a group of tiny two-winged flies (order Diptera). Although they resemble mosquitoes, midges are harmless and do not have scales on wings or body; in addition, the pattern of wing veins differs from that of mosquitoes, and the small mouthparts are not elongated into a sucking tube. The male antennae are feathery. Midges are usually found around ponds or streams in late afternoon and evening in swarms that produce a humming sound. Midges may breed in water or manure or under tree bark. The wormlike aquatic larvae, soft-bodied and often bloodred, are commonly known as bloodworms. They are important food for aquatic animals, especially trout and young salmon. The nonbiting midge is related to the biting midge (q.v.). For the family Cecidomyiidae (Itonididae), see gall midge.