Leptoconops torrens

Leptoconops torrens
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Family: Ceratopogonidae
Genus: Leptoconops
Species:
L. torrens
Binomial name
Leptoconops torrens
(Townsend), 1893

Leptoconops torrens (commonly known as the biting midge fly) is a species of small biting flies in the no-see-um family Ceratopogonidae.[1] They were first mentioned in writing by Charles Henry Tyler Townsend in 1893.[2] The name Leptoconops carteri is a junior synonym of L. torrens.[3] They are prevalent in the southwestern and southeastern areas of the United States.[4] In early stages of life, L. torrens flies dwell in soil, then emerge to feed and breed as fully developed adults.[5]

L. torrens females rely on blood meals from vertebrates for nutrition, while males feed on various plant products such as nectar. L. torrens infestations in California have caused people to take measures to control their populations. The flies are relatively small at around 1⁄16 inch (1.6 mm) long and are difficult to spot, making preventing L. torrens bites difficult. Construction projects and farming efforts have been temporarily suspended because of L. torrens biting activity.[6]

  1. ^ "No-See-Ums" (PDF). Bohart Museum of Entomology.
  2. ^ Stone, Alan. (1965). A catalog of the Diptera of America north of Mexico. For sale by the Superintendent of Documents. OCLC 1087217131.
  3. ^ Wirth, Willis W.; William R. Atchley (September 1973). A Review of the North American Leptoconops (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) (PDF). Graduate Studies. Vol. 5. Texas Tech University. pp. 3–57.
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