Insect: Bloodworm Midge Scientific Name: Diptera Chiromomidae

Description: Color: bright red, usually fades to brown or gray if preserved Appendages: two pairs of ventral tubules on its eighth segment Length: 2 mm to 20 mm

Discussion:      The bloodworm midge described was in a stage of complete metamorphosis. In its larval stage, it is similar to other midges, but usually larger, and distinctly red in color, and up to an inch long. Adults often resemble small mosquitoes with fuzzy antennae on males.      Reproduction occurs when the female deposits a gelatinous mass of eggs on the surface of water or on submerged vegetation. The specimen primarily eats algae and other organic debris.