Ceratopogonidae (Biting midges)
From Halbeeg, the open encyclopedia · Af-Soomaali
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Ceratopogonidae is a family of two-winged flies (Diptera), related to mosquitoes and other flies but much smaller. Most species are only a few millimetres long, making them difficult to see with the naked eye when in flight.
Many species of females feed on the blood of animals and humans to obtain the nutrients needed for reproduction. The bites cause pain and itching, and some species are known in English as biting midges. The males do not feed on blood; they feed on flower nectar instead.
Body anatomy
Ceratopogonidae have only two wings, like all Diptera. The wings of many species bear marks or coloured patterns that help distinguish different species. The antennae of females are segmented and hairy, which helps them detect the sound vibrations produced by male wings.
Life cycle
The life cycle consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Females lay eggs in moist places: soil, water margins and seashore, rotting wood, or livestock dung. The larvae live in water or wet soil and feed on small organisms and decaying plant matter.
Health and livestock
Some species, particularly those of the genus Culicoides, transmit viruses and worms to livestock. These include bluetongue disease in sheep and cattle, and other diseases affecting cattle and horses. Among humans, some species living in warm regions transmit certain filariasis worms.