noun
- A small fly of the family Chironomidae, resembling a mosquito but lacking functional mouthparts in the adult stage; a midge.
Usage: technical; biology
Examples
- Chironomids are common in freshwater ecosystems and serve as an important food source for fish.
- The larvae of chironomids live in sediment at the bottom of lakes and streams.
- Anglers often use chironomid patterns as fly-fishing lures because trout feed on them regularly.
- Chironomids do not bite humans, unlike many other small flying insects.
- Scientists study chironomid populations to assess water quality in aquatic habitats.