![]() ![]() ![]() Very little information exists regarding biting midges in Indiana, but distribution data reveal that several species occur in the state. are Culicoides, Leptoconops, and Forcipomyia. The genera of greatest importance to human and livestock health in the U. Species in only four genera of biting midges feed on the blood of mammals. Over 600 species in 36 genera have been described in North America, the vast majority of which either feed on other insects or other non-human animals. How Many Types of Biting Midges Are There?īiting midges are flies (Order Diptera) in the family Ceratopogonidae, which includes over 4, 000 species in 78 genera worldwide. For example, “no-see-ums” is used widely in the North America, “punkies” in the Northeast, “five-O’s (related to biting around 5 PM) in Florida and Alabama, “pinyon gnats” in the Southwest, and “moose flies” in Canada. When numerous, biting midges have a real impact on residents and visitors of the Atlantic Coast, Gulf Coast, San Francisco Bay region, and southwestern deserts, primarily by limiting outdoor activities.īiting midge is a common name for pest species, but it is not the only one. The bites of biting midges inflict a burning sensation and can cause different reactions in humans, ranging from a small reddish welt at the bite site to local allergic reactions that cause significant itching. This virus is a major cause of disease in livestock in the western U. In North America, the most important disease agent transmitted by biting midges is Blue Tongue virus. They have a much greater impact on non-human animals, both as biting pests and vectors of disease agents. Are Biting Midges a Public Health Risk?īiting midges are extremely annoying, but none are known to transmit disease agents to humans in the U.S. You are encouraged to learn more about the biology of biting midges so that you can avoid being bitten and be better informed about their public health risk. Their blood-sucking habits also raise concerns about possible involvement in the transmission of disease agents. Biting midges are minute to tiny flies that can be severe biting pests of humans, pets, livestock, and wildlife. ![]()
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