Forcipomyiinae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Infraorder: Culicomorpha
Family: Ceratopogonidae
Subfamily: Forcipomyiinae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Forcipomyiinae: /fɔrˌsɪpoʊˈmaɪɪˌniː/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Summary

The Forcipomyiinae subfamily consists of small biting midges that are ectoparasitic on various insects, plays roles in pollination, and can be vectors for diseases affecting larger vertebrates. They are characterized by their hairier bodies relative to other midge subfamilies and a unique life cycle.

Physical Characteristics

Claws curved but not especially long; empodia long; typically hairier than subfamily Ceratopogininae.

Identification Tips

Look for small flies (1–3 mm) with elongated body shape and distinctive mouthparts adapted for cutting skin.

Habitat

Larvae require moisture to develop but can thrive in both terrestrial and aquatic environments, feeding primarily on algae and fungi.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution excluding the Antarctic and Arctic; particularly common throughout North America.

Diet

Both adult males and females feed on nectar; females also require blood from vertebrates for protein necessary for egg-laying.

Life Cycle

Holometabolous development involving four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Life cycle duration is typically two to six weeks in warmer climates.

Reproduction

Females require vertebrate blood to obtain protein for egg production; males do not feed on blood.

Predators

Some species are predatory on other small insects, including mosquito larvae.

Ecosystem Role

Play a role as both pollinators and ectoparasites, impacting host species populations and contributing to the ecological dynamics of their habitats.

Economic Impact

Some species are important pollinators for crops; however, others can transmit diseases affecting livestock and humans.

Health Concerns

Known vectors of various pathogens leading to diseases like bluetongue disease and other zoonotic illnesses; bites can cause painful, itchy lesions.

Collecting Methods

Trapping with carbon dioxide lures
Netting during peak activity times

Preservation Methods

Alcohol preservation
Pinning for specimens

Evolution

Oldest known representative from the family dates back to the Berriasian, approximately 142 million years ago.

Similar Taxa

Ceratopogoninae
Leptoconopinae

Misconceptions

Often referred to as no-see-ums due to their small size, leading many people to underestimate their impact; bites are frequently mistaken for mosquito bites.