Male Biting Midge

Description:

This tiny fly was about 3 mm in length and is the male of a Ceratopogonid midge or biting midge. The females of most species suck blood and bite ferociously in spite of their tiny size. The males do not feed on blood and are rarely seen. They are also called Punkies, Sandflies or No-see-ums. They are so small, they can pass through most screens and are often a severe pest. Some species are vectors of viruses, protozoa and filarial worms. Larvae are aquatic or semi-aquatic. Family Ceratopogonidae.

Habitat:

Came to an ultraviolet light in the garden, San Cristobal de Las Casas, 2,200 meters.