Meniscus midge larvae
Dixidae · Aquatic life
Whole animal · Photo: Janek Lass / CC BY 4.0 (Wikimedia Commons)
Also called Dixid midges, Dixidae, Dixa
How to identify Meniscus midge larvae
- Slender larvae about 1/8 to 1/4 inch at the very edge of the water surface
- Rest in a U shape, bent in the middle, on plants or stones at the waterline
- Move with a quick sideways wriggle along the surface film
- Short breathing structure with small fringed flaps at the tail
Similar species
Mosquito larvae hang head down from the surface and dive when disturbed. Midge larvae live on the bottom in tubes or mud.
Profile
| Season | Spring through fall. |
|---|---|
| Starts | Active from spring through fall |
| Depth | At the water surface line |
| How it spreads or reproduces | Winged adults fly |
| Habitat | Wet edges of plants, mossy stones and banks at the surface line of ponds, springs and slow streams. |
Why it matters in a lake
Harmless filter feeders that do not bite as adults. Often mistaken for mosquito larvae.
Where it is found
- Idaho: Occasional
- Oregon: Occasional
- Wyoming: Occasional
Classification
| Kingdom | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum | Arthropoda |
| Class | Insecta |
| Order | Diptera |
| Family | Dixidae |
| Scientific name | Dixidae |
Midge larvae (bloodworms)
Mosquito larvae
Dragonfly nymphs
Damselfly nymphs
Water boatmen
Backswimmers
Predaceous diving beetles
Water striders
Mayfly nymphs
Caddisfly larvaeNeed a hand?
Found it in your lake?
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Idaho / Wyoming (208) 501-4531Oregon (541) 280-0596