Glacier Midge vs St Mark's Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Glacier Midge | St Mark's Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Diamesa steinboecki | Bibio johannis |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Chironomidae | Bibionidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 6-10mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Underground |
| Diet | Detritivores | Root Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Data Deficient | Least Concern |
Glacier Midge
A remarkable midge that completes its entire life cycle in glacial streams at temperatures near 0C. Represents one of the coldest habitats inhabited by any insect.
Did You Know?
This midge lives its entire life in water barely above freezing — its larvae graze algae on glacier surfaces where temperatures hover around 0C year-round.
St Mark's Fly
A small black fly that swarms in May. Males have large heads with huge eyes that almost meet on top.
Did You Know?
Often confused with the larger Bibio marci but emerges slightly later and has entirely dark legs.