AB Fish Report
Insect Encyclopedia

Midge

Chironomidae

Chironomidae

Midge / FlyHook #18-263-12 mm body

Peak activity

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Midge — Larva

Larva

Small worm-like larvae (red bloodworms in silty areas); very abundant.

Midge — Adult

Adult

Delicate mosquito-like insect; males form swarming columns.

Habitat & hatch

Found in rivers, tailwaters, spring creeks, lake littoral zones, and reservoirs, most commonly in pools, runs, and weedy littoral areas. Bottom larvae; adult on surface. Often associated with silt, vegetation, and gravel. Larvae on the bottom; adults emerge on the surface film. Often all day in tailwaters.

Timing

This species can be active year-round. Strongest surface activity occurs around the morning, midday, and the evening.

Sources

  • Clifford HF. Aquatic Invertebrates of Alberta.
  • AB Fish Report synthesis from peer-reviewed Alberta and western North America literature.