About Biting Midge (No-See-Um)
A tiny biting midge that is the primary Old World vector of bluetongue virus and African horse sickness virus. It breeds in moist, organically enriched soil and is crepuscular, biting at dawn and dusk. Its northward spread into Europe has introduced bluetongue to previously unaffected areas.
Did You Know?
Climate change has allowed this midge to expand northward into Europe, bringing bluetongue disease to countries that had never experienced it.
How to Identify Biting Midge (No-See-Um)
Biting Midge (No-See-Um) (Culicoides imicola) belongs to the order Diptera, family Ceratopogonidae. Adults typically measure 1-3 mm.
Biting Midge (No-See-Um) Habitat
Biting Midge (No-See-Um) is found in underground habitats, particularly across Africa, Middle East, southern Europe, Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Biting Midge (No-See-Um) Diet and Feeding
Biting Midge (No-See-Um) is a blood-feeding species that obtains nutrients by feeding on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals. Blood feeders have specialised mouthparts adapted for piercing skin.
Where Is Biting Midge (No-See-Um) Found?
Biting Midge (No-See-Um) can be found in Africa, Middle East, southern Europe, Asia, where it inhabits underground environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Biting Midge (No-See-Um) can be found
Is Biting Midge (No-See-Um) Dangerous?
Biting Midge (No-See-Um) is a blood-feeding insect that bites humans and animals to obtain a blood meal. Bites can cause irritation, itching, and in some cases allergic reactions. Some blood-feeding insects are known to transmit diseases, so precautions should be taken to avoid bites.
Biting Midge (No-See-Um) Role in Nature
Biting Midge (No-See-Um) plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Biting Midge (No-See-Um) are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Biting Midge (No-See-Um)
What does Biting Midge (No-See-Um) look like?
The Biting Midge (No-See-Um) typically measures 1-3 mm.
Where is Biting Midge (No-See-Um) found?
The Biting Midge (No-See-Um) is found in Africa, Middle East, southern Europe, Asia and typically inhabits underground environments.
What does Biting Midge (No-See-Um) eat?
The Biting Midge (No-See-Um) feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals.
Is Biting Midge (No-See-Um) dangerous to humans?
The Biting Midge (No-See-Um) is a blood-feeding insect that bites humans and animals. Some blood feeders can transmit diseases. Take precautions to avoid bites.
What is an interesting fact about Biting Midge (No-See-Um)?
Climate change has allowed this midge to expand northward into Europe, bringing bluetongue disease to countries that had never experienced it.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Biting Midge (No-See-Um) (Culicoides imicola). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/biting-midge-no-see-um
MLA:
"Biting Midge (No-See-Um)." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/biting-midge-no-see-um.