(Diptera) Aphidoletes aphidimiza

Aphid Predator Midge

Aphidoletes are a small gall midge in the fly family.  They look like a very small mosquito or fungus gnat.  They are not attracted to light and typically collect under leaves and in dark areas, hanging on with only one of their long, thin legs.  Seldom observed during the day, Aphidoletes prefer high humidity and prey on several aphid species.  When aphid populations are dense they will often kill more than they eat.