Chironomidaeis a large and common family of small flies. Many midge larvae areaquatic, some known as “bloodworms” for their distinctive red color.This red color comes from hemoglobin, which stores oxygen and allowsthe larvae to live in harsh, low oxygen waters. Because of theirabundance, bloodworms serve as a significant food source for fish andother aquatic animals. As adults, midges can also be seen congregatingin large mating swarms near fresh water. Because of their similar bodytype, midges are often mistaken for mosquitoes though they do not bite.Although insects are usually not found in the ocean, the marine midge (Telmatogeton macswaini) occurs in the intertidal zone around sea lettuce.

The Coal Oil Point Reserve collection has 12 species of midges.

Midge Photos (click to enlarge)
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