The aphid midge, Aphidoletes aphidimyza, is a cecidomyiid fly whose larvae are effective predators of aphids. Initially a new species was described for every different prey attacked, and at least 24 previously described species have been determined to be A. aphidimyza. This midge is an important component of biological control programs for greenhouse crops and is widely sold in the U.S.

Common Name:  Predatory midge

Scientific Name: Aphidoletes aphidimyza

Adult of predatory midge that in the larval stage feeds on mites and other small arthropods.

Description:  Adult aphid midges are small (2-3 mm), delicate, mosquito-like flies with long, dangling legs and long antennae. Eggs are oval, minute (about 0.1 mm by 0.3 mm), and orange. The larvae, which look like orange maggots, are tiny, growing through three instars from minute to 2-3 mm. Depending on their food source, they are bright orange to red, and their bodies narrow toward the head. The larvae have strong "jaws" with which they grasp their prey.