What are No-See-Ums?
No-see-ums are tiny biting insects that are a common nuisance in many environments. These minuscule flies are also known by various regional names, including biting midges, sandflies, sand gnats, or punkies. Typically measuring between 1 to 3 millimeters in length, they are often difficult to spot with the naked eye. They are widespread globally, frequently found in warm, humid climates, especially near water sources like marshes, swamps, and coastlines.
The No-See-Um’s Biting Mechanism
Female no-see-ums are the ones that bite, as they require a blood meal to produce their eggs. Male no-see-ums primarily feed on plant nectar. These insects are equipped with specialized mouthparts. Rather than simply piercing the skin like a mosquito, no-see-ums use cutting mandibles to slice the skin. This slicing action allows them to create a small wound from which they can lap up blood. When they bite, they inject saliva, which can lead to immediate irritation, pain, and itchiness. Their bites often manifest as small red dots or raised welts, frequently appearing in clusters on the skin. No-see-ums locate hosts by detecting cues such as carbon dioxide, body heat, and perspiration.
Clothing and No-See-Um Bites
No-see-ums can indeed bite through certain types of clothing, which is a common concern for individuals in affected areas. The effectiveness of clothing as a barrier depends significantly on the fabric’s characteristics. Loosely woven materials, such as thin cotton or some synthetic blends, offer minimal defense against these tiny biters. Their small size allows them to penetrate the gaps within the weave of such fabrics.
Conversely, tightly woven and thicker materials, like denim or nylon windbreakers, provide a more robust physical barrier. These fabrics have smaller openings in their weave, making it much more difficult for the no-see-um’s mouthparts to reach the skin. The fit of clothing also plays a role in protection. Loose-fitting garments can create an air gap between the fabric and the skin, making it harder for no-see-ums to land and bite effectively.
In contrast, tight-fitting clothing presses the fabric directly against the skin, which can inadvertently assist no-see-ums in biting through the material or finding vulnerable spots. They are particularly adept at exploiting any openings or gaps, such as those around ankles, wrists, and necklines. Therefore, while clothing offers some defense, its protective capacity against no-see-ums is not absolute and varies greatly with material and fit.
Maximizing Protection from No-See-Ums
To reduce exposure to no-see-um bites, selecting appropriate clothing is a practical first step. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants made from tightly woven, loose-fitting fabrics can create a physical barrier. Opting for light-colored clothing may also be beneficial, as these insects can be attracted to darker shades. Tucking pant legs into socks can further minimize exposed skin and prevent no-see-ums from crawling underneath clothing.
Beyond clothing, applying insect repellents to exposed skin is an effective measure. Repellents containing active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are known to deter no-see-ums. Some essential oils, including camphor, eucalyptus, lemon, and mint, are also unappealing to these insects and can be used in natural repellent mixtures.
Environmental controls can also contribute significantly to protection. No-see-ums are most active during dawn and dusk, so avoiding outdoor activities during these periods can reduce bite risk. Installing fine-mesh screens on windows and doors, specifically designed for no-see-ums (e.g., 20×20 or 30×30 mesh), is necessary as standard screens often have openings large enough for them to pass through. Additionally, utilizing fans outdoors can deter these weak fliers, as the airflow disrupts their ability to fly and locate hosts. Eliminating standing water and moist breeding grounds around your property can also help manage their populations.