Biting Midge vs Comstock's Net-Winged Midge
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Biting Midge | Comstock's Net-Winged Midge |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Culicoides impunctatus | Agathon comstocki |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Ceratopogonidae | Blephariceridae |
| Size | 1-3 mm | 5-8 mm |
| Habitat | Indoors | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Biting Midge
A tiny, gray, blood-sucking fly notorious in Scotland and Scandinavia as the Highland midge. Swarms can be so dense they form visible clouds and drive people indoors.
Did You Know?
Highland midges are estimated to cost the Scottish tourism industry over 300 million pounds annually and were reportedly a factor in slowing the construction of the West Highland Railway.
Comstock's Net-Winged Midge
A western North American net-winged midge found on waterfall-splashed rocks. Larvae have a unique caterpillar-like body with sucker discs.
Did You Know?
Larvae inch forward using alternating suction attachment, moving like a caterpillar across wet rock faces.