Ceratopogonidae is a family of small, biting flies commonly known as no-see-ums or midges. This family belongs to the order Diptera, which includes all true flies. Ceratopogonids can be found worldwide, with thousands of species existing in various habitats, ranging from forests and wetlands to deserts and coastal areas.
These tiny insects typically measure less than 1/8 of an inch in length, making them difficult to see with the naked eye. Despite their small size, ceratopogonids are notorious for their painful bites, which can cause itchiness and irritation in humans and other animals. Only female ceratopogonids feed on blood, as they require it for egg development. Males, on the other hand, primarily feed on nectar and plant juices.
Ceratopogonidae larvae are often found in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments, such as marshes, swamps, and freshwater bodies. They play important roles in ecosystems as decomposers and filter feeders, consuming organic matter and microorganisms. Larvae of some ceratopogonid species are also known to be predators, feeding on other small water-dwelling organisms.
Due to their small size and diverse distribution, ceratopogonids can be vectors of several diseases, including viruses and parasites. Some species, such as those belonging to the genus Culicoides, are responsible for transmitting diseases to livestock, like bluetongue and African horse sickness.
In summary, Ceratopogonidae refers to a family of small, biting flies known for their painful bites. They are found worldwide, with larvae typically inhabiting aquatic or semi-aquatic environments. Cerat
