Non-biting Midges

Chironomidae , commonly known as non-biting midges or chironomids , are a family of Nematoceran flies with a global distribution. They are closely related to the families Ceratopogonidae, Simuliidae, and Thaumaleidae. Although many chironomid species superficially resemble mosquitoes, they can be distinguished by the absence of the wing scales and elongated mouthparts characteristic of the Culicidae (true mosquitoes).

The name Chironomidae stems from the Ancient Greek word kheironómos, "a pantomimist".