Knowledgebase
Tiny black bugs massing on ends of white, red pine and spruce trees #787936
Asked April 25, 2022, 10:54 AM EDT
Ogemaw County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello Katheryn,
Those look like chironomid midges aka non-biting midges (Diptera: Chironomidae). These harmless insects are not killing your white pines.
Chironomids are small harmless mosquito-like flies that are generally encountered in large swarms around lakes and other aquatic habitats. The larvae or immature stages occur in nearly every habitat that is aquatic or wet. Many species are also found in soil and other moist terrestrial environments that are rich in organic matter. Most species of chironomids are quite specific in the habitat in which they develop and are often used as biological indicators of water quality. Adult emergence occurs from early spring throughout the summer with each species having a more or less restricted period of emergence. The adult flies live for a very short time and die shortly after mating and egg laying. Shortly after emergence males form large swarms to attract females. Chironomids represent a large family of flies with over 750 North American species. Midge larvae are an important food item for many freshwater fish and other aquatic animals. Because adult chironomids are so short-lived, chemical control of these flies outdoors is usually not required and would most likely be ineffective. It is best to wait for them to disappear on their own. Adult flies can be easily controlled indoors with a fly swatter orany household aerosol insecticide, like Raid.
Best regards,
Howard
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On 04/25/2022 1:47 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
On 04/25/2022 1:47 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Nope, not sawflies, they are midges.