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Buzzer midge

Buzzer midge

Chironomus plumosus

A species of Chironomus, Also known as Winnebago lake fly

The buzzer midge is a non-biting midge, and the larvae of this species play an important role in the aquatic food web. The eggs are laid in silk tubes on water, which multiply and sink to the bottom. Although buzzer midges are not considered human pests, the males form large swarms when they are mating, which can sometimes be an annoyance.

General Info About Buzzer midge
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Attributes of Buzzer midge
Colors
Brown
Green
Gray
White
Habitat
lake; stream; river; lake; pond; temporary pool; wetland; marsh
Adult Food Sources
None (Adults do not feed and rely on energy stored from the younger stage)
Larva Food Source
Decomposing organic matter, algae, microorganisms, sediment particles, plant debris
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Species Status of Buzzer midge
Very common
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Distribution Area of Buzzer midge
United States
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Life Cycle of Buzzer midge
Egg The buzzer midge begins its life cycle as an egg, which is often laid in clusters. These eggs are tiny, oval, and typically laid in aquatic environments. Color varies, but they are usually translucent or have a light color, making them difficult to spot.
Larva After hatching, the buzzer midge enters the larval stage, known as a maggot. It has a worm-like appearance with a distinct head and a soft, elongated body. As it grows, the larva molts several times. It lacks true legs but may have fleshy prolegs for movement.
Pupal The larva of buzzer midge transforms into a pupa, a transitional stage where it does not feed and is often encased in a pupal casing. The insect is immobile, and significant changes occur as it develops wings, legs, and adult features within the pupa.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult buzzer midge's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction. Adults have a more vibrant coloration than larvae.
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Predators of Buzzer midge Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, fish, aquatic insects
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Scientific Classification of Buzzer midge
Class
Bugs
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Order
Flies
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Family
Midges
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Tips for Finding Buzzer midge
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Youth Habitat of Buzzer midge
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Buzzer midge
Wetlands, Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract Buzzer midge
Adult buzzer midge can be attracted using light traps since they are drawn to bright lights at night. Larvae, however, do not require food-based traps as they are found in the substrate of their aquatic habitats.
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Habitat Preferences of Buzzer midge Through Different Life Stages
To observe the life stages of buzzer midge, one must explore diverse habitats. The aquatic larvae thrive in freshwater bodies such as ponds, lakes, or slow-flowing rivers, often buried in sediment or on aquatic vegetation. For pupation, these locations are still relevant as the transformation occurs underwater. Adults are found near these water sources but are also attracted to artificial lights, making evening times near street lights or illuminated windows opportune for sightings. Seeking buzzer midge involves waterbody explorations for larvae and pupae, and visits to nearby lit areas for adults.
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How and Where Can You Find Buzzer midge at Different Life Stages
Larva Buzzer midge larvae reside in the sediment of freshwater bodies like lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. They can be collected by gently scooping substrate from the bottom and sifting it through a fine mesh to retain the larvae.
Pupal Pupal buzzer midge are also aquatic but do not feed and are found suspended near the water surface. Locate them by looking for small, cocoon-like structures in the water column, often anchored to vegetation or other submerged objects.
Adult Adult buzzer midge is most easily found by setting up a light source near water bodies at night. They are attracted to the light and may also be found resting on nearby vegetation or structures in the morning.
Are Buzzer midge harmful?
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