Ceratopogonidae

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Ceratopogonidae
Phylum Arthropoda
Class Insecta
Family Ceratopogonidae
Genus Culicoides

Also known as: Midges
The most important veterinary species is Culicoides

Introduction

This parasite is found worldwide and attacks humans and a wide variety of animals. The only genus of the family Ceratopogonidae of current veterinary significance is Culicoides.

The midge is a vector for several viruses, including Bluetongue and African horse sickness.

It causes allergic dermatitis of horses, primarily affecting the base of the tail and the withers, and induces an intermediate-type hypersensitivity reaction to the midge saliva, known as 'Sweet itch'

Identification

Culicoides are small flies 2-5mm long with a dark colouring, more commonly known as biting midges. They have a characteristic arched thorax giving a 'hump-backed' appearance. The wings are mottled.

Life cycle

Eggs are laid onto plants near water and the larvae fall into water and pupate. The life cycle takes 6-12 months to complete in temperate climates, but can take only 1 month in tropical climates. Females of most species are adapted to sucking blood from the host.

Literature Search

Use these links to find recent scientific publications via CABdirect (log in required unless accessing from a subscribing organisation).

Ceratopogonidae publications on VetMed resource