General Description

Body cylindrical with a hardened (sclerotised) head. Pair of small legs (prolegs) immediately behind the head and on the last segment of the abdomen. Colour varies, including red or brown. Up to 1 cm long.

Biology

Some of these midges are red, containing haemoglobin (also present in human blood), which enables them to live in waters with low oxygen concentrations. Different species have different feeding habits; some are predators, some are herbivores.

Distribution

Worldwide. Mainland Australia and Tasmania.

Habitat

Flowing or still water, usually under rocks, buried in mud or enclosed in tubes.

More Information