High-altitude Midge vs Southern Net-Winged Midge
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | High-altitude Midge | Southern Net-Winged Midge |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Diamesa latitarsis | Blepharicera cherokea |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Chironomidae | Blephariceridae |
| Size | 2-4 mm body length | 6-9 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Mountains |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Alps, Carpathians, Scandinavia | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
High-altitude Midge
A small, dark midge whose larvae inhabit the coldest alpine streams. It has unusually broad tarsi adapted for walking on wet rocks.
Did You Know?
Its broad feet allow it to grip wet rocks in fast-flowing glacial streams.
Southern Net-Winged Midge
A net-winged midge endemic to southern Appalachian mountain streams. Larvae graze diatoms from smooth rock faces in fast cascades.
Did You Know?
Each suction disc on the larva generates enough force to support the entire body against rushing water.