Chironominae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chironominae: //ˌkɪrəˈnɒmɪniː//

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Summary

Chironominae is a subfamily of non-biting midges within the family Chironomidae, characterized by their size and specific wing features, and are distributed worldwide with a notable presence in warmer regions.

Physical Characteristics

1-13mm in adult size; absence of the wing vein M-Cu; first segment of front tarsus equal or longer than front tibia. Legs typically held above and in front of the head.

Identification Tips

Larvae are almost always red, generally live in tubes or cases, and typically have two vertically arranged eyespots on each side. The larger, more conspicuous midges generally belong to Chironomini, which can help in identification.

Habitat

Worldwide, with more diversity in warmer regions; they thrive in a variety of aquatic environments.

Distribution

Generally found in warm weather areas, present all or most of the year along the Gulf Coast, but only active during July in the Arctic.

Diet

Detailed information on diet is not provided, but they are typically regarded as filter feeders or grazers in their larval stage.

Life Cycle

The life cycle details are not extensively covered; however, they undergo complete metamorphosis with larval, pupal, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Genital differences are present, especially in males, which may play a role in reproductive processes; specifics on mating behaviors are not provided.

Similar Taxa

• Orthocladiinae

Tags

• Chironominae
• midges
• Chironomidae
• insects
• entomology