Log Miner Midge vs Giant Net-Winged Midge

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Log Miner Midge Giant Net-Winged Midge
Scientific Name Stenochironomus hilaris Bibiocephala grandis
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Chironomidae Blephariceridae
Size 5-8 mm 10-15 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Mountains
Diet Wood Feeders Omnivores
Regions North America North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Log Miner Midge

A wood-mining chironomid whose larvae bore into submerged decaying logs in streams. Larvae create visible galleries beneath the bark of waterlogged timber.

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Did You Know?

It is one of very few insects whose larvae can digest submerged waterlogged wood.

Giant Net-Winged Midge

The largest net-winged midge in North America, found in powerful western mountain torrents. Larvae have six robust suction discs for gripping wet rock.

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Did You Know?

At up to 15 mm, it is a giant among net-winged midges, most of which are under 8 mm.