Habitat
Adults: terrestrial
Immatures: aquatic

Feeding Habits
Adults:

Immatures: saprophagous

North American
Species: 500

Diptera Ceratopogonidae
Biting midges, Punkies or No-see-ums

Special Characteristics: These are very small flies that look like midges (Chironomidae) but are usually more stout-bodied with broader wings that are held flat over the body when at rest. They often have patterned wings.

Comments: Most species of Ceratopogonidae suck body fluids from other insects or feed on nectar or pollen, but the females of some species are bloodfeeders on humans and are often serious pests. Some of the larger species are predaceous on smaller insects. They are common along seashores or shores of rivers and lakes. The larvae are aquatic or semi-aquatic and occur in sand, mud, decaying vegetation and in the water of tree holes. The larvae are scavengers.

Species:
Heteromyia sp.

Common Name:

Feeding Habits: The adults of this poorly known genus are probably predators of mosquitos.

Distribution:

Comments:
Members of this genus are rarely collected but can be seen resting on vegetation near water in the late spring.