Mountain Midge vs Lovebug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mountain Midge Lovebug
Scientific Name Deuterophlebia coloradensis Plecia nearctica
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Deuterophlebiidae Bibionidae
Size 3-5 mm 6-9 mm
Habitat Mountains Grasslands
Diet Herbivores Nectar Feeders
Regions North America North America, Central America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Mountain Midge

A tiny midge whose larvae cling to rocks in fast-flowing alpine streams with suction discs.

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Did You Know?

Adults have bizarre fan-shaped wings that are useless for flight.

Lovebug

A small black march fly famous for flying in mated pairs connected end to end for days. Massive swarms occur twice yearly in the southeastern United States, causing significant nuisance.

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Did You Know?

Their acidic body chemistry can damage car paint if not washed off quickly, costing motorists millions annually.