Midges are exceptionally tiny insects. While “height” isn’t typically applied to insects, their minuscule length and overall body size are notable characteristics. Understanding these dimensions provides insight into their pervasive presence.
What is a Midge?
A midge refers to any small fly within a broad group of non-mosquito Diptera, the order of true flies. This general term encompasses species from families like Chironomidae, Ceratopogonidae, and Simuliidae. These families are found globally, inhabiting nearly every land area except arid deserts and frigid zones.
Midges are categorized as biting or non-biting. Non-biting midges, such as Chironomidae, resemble mosquitoes but lack biting mouthparts. Biting midges, including Ceratopogonidae and Simuliidae, are blood-feeders and can be significant pests. These biting varieties are often called “no-see-ums” in North America due to their near-invisible size.
The Scale of Midges
Midges are remarkably small, with their length typically measured in millimeters. Biting midges commonly range from 1 to 3 millimeters long. For perspective, several midges could fit on a pencil tip or be no longer than a grain of rice. Their wingspan is also minute, with some species having a wingspan of approximately 1.4 millimeters.
Non-biting midges can exhibit a wider range in size, with adults measuring from 1 millimeter up to about 12.7 millimeters. Even their larval stages can be quite small, though some aquatic midge larvae can reach lengths of up to 30 millimeters. Their “height” is negligible compared to their overall length, making them appear extremely flat and slender.
Implications of Their Small Size
The diminutive size of midges has direct consequences for their interaction with human environments. Standard window screens, designed to block larger insects, often have mesh openings midges can easily penetrate, allowing them to enter homes and other structures. Specialized “midge mesh” or “no-see-um mesh” with finer openings (0.6 millimeters or less) is necessary to create an effective barrier.
For biting midges, their small stature means they are often unnoticed until their bite is felt. People frequently experience a sharp, painful sensation but cannot see the insect responsible, leading to their “no-see-um” moniker. The bites can cause intense itching and welts, which may appear hours after the initial bite. This delayed reaction, combined with their ability to pass through typical barriers, contributes to their persistent annoyance.
Their small size also facilitates their ability to swarm in immense numbers. Male midges form aerial swarms at dusk to attract females. While individual midges are tiny, their collective presence can create a visible cloud. This swarming behavior, a direct consequence of their minute dimensions and large populations, makes them a significant nuisance, particularly in outdoor areas near their breeding grounds.