Unfortunately, we have now been welcomed into Midge season. Do you know if you have Aquatic Midges or Mosquitoes? Vampire or non-Vampire? Interestingly enough, this very common insect usually goes unknown but is one of the biggest nuisances in Florida. Also, if Midges weren’t enough we also have the ever so dreaded mosquitoes. Although, they may look similar from far away. But, up close they are actually very different. Lastly, because they are a large nuisance, you should get to know more about them and how to limit their traffic in your home.
Differences in Aquatic Midges and Mosquitoes
First, the main difference between the Aquatic Midges and Mosquitoes is the proboscis (the biting mouth parts). Furthermore, Midges do not have a proboscis so they are not able to bite. The jury has come to a verdict, not a vampire! On the other hand, we all know the mosquito is guilty. They do have that ever so painful proboscis. As a result, this means that Midges do not carry diseases, but Mosquitoes do. Secondly, the next main difference is their wings. In addition, Midges have shorter wings that are not covered by scales accompanied by a straight body . On the other hand, Mosquitoes have wings longer than their body. As well, the wings have scales and their body has a humpback appearance. And, Midges fly in and form swarms but Mosquitoes fly solo!
Why Midges Are a Large Nuisance
As the drive for people to want to live on or close to lakes increases, Midges become more of a nuisance. Secondly, they are attracted to bodies of water that contain high nutrients and algae. As a result, their Larvae actually feed on those nutrients leading to the deterioration of the water quality, which helps them thrive. A Midges second half of its life is spent on land where they swarm. In addition, when they are in their peak season between April and November the swarms actually damage stucco, paint, and multiple other wall finishes. Next, if they get inside your home they can actually ruin your furniture, draperies, laundry, walls/ceilings and more. Damages to homes are due to the Midges having an attraction to lights on businesses and homes at night. As if that wasn’t enough, they also cause damage to vehicles.
Midges have four stages to their lifestyle. Further, the stages of Midges includes, egg, larvae, pupae, and adult. Next, after they hatch, the larvae sink to the bottom the water source and burrow into the mud. Consequently, because they live on the water and the bottom of the water it’s very difficult to kill them and extremely costly. However, there are some things you can do to prevent or limit them from showing up at your door. For example, instead of a consistently lit light at your door, try a motion activated light instead. This helps prevent them from swarming at your door.
The Verdict
In conclusion, Midges do a lot more damage than mosquitoes. However, Mosquitoes do carry harmful diseases and do a number on us in the summer time. The verdict is, both are the dreaded visitors in this season!
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