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| | | Chironomus atroviridis | | Chironomus atroviridis (synonyms: Tendipes atroviridis, Chaetolabis atroviridis) belong to the genus Chironomus, in the order two-winged flies (Diptera), the suborder Nematocera, the infraorder Culicomorpha, the superfamily Chironomoidea, the family midges (Chironomidae), the subfamily Chironominae and the tribe Chironomini. | | |
| | | The bodies of Chironomus atroviridis are medium in size, soft-skinned and delicate. The mouthparts of these insects are not suitable for stinging or sucking blood. Their antennae have discrete groups of hairs on their surface which are capable of improving their ability to detect vibrations. The chest (thorax) is very arched. The wings are well developed and are posited roof-like on the abdomen in resting position. When at rest, these midges stretch their front legs out forwards free of their bodies and move them convulsively. Chironomus atroviridis have a life expectancy of only a few days. They feed on honeydew or nectar. | | |
| | | During the mating season, these insects can be encountered in large swarms, searching for mates. They are of great importance in the food chain because of their large numbers, as they are used by many birds as a staple food for their offspring. | | |
| | | The larvae of Chironomus atroviridis are slender and worm-shaped and have a head capsule. Their mouthparts (mandibles) are strongly built. Their bodies are divided into 3 thoracic segments and 9 abdominal segments. The first thoracic segment has a pair of stunted feet. They have a caudal disc which enables forward movement. The tracheae of the larvae are never open; breathing is performed exclusively through the skin. The development of the larvae always takes place in four stages. The flexible pupae have respiratory pipes which connect to the tracheal system. | | |
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| | | Description of images / photos | | 1. | Chironomus atroviridis |
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