Question

Biting midges are characterized by
(A). Mottled appearance in wings
(B). Thorax is humped over the head
(C). Piercing mouth parts
(D). Antenna is 3 segmented
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

Nematocera (including mosquitoes, blackflies, and midges) always have long antennae with more than 6 segments.
Knowing this suborder classification allows you to instantly rule out the 3-segmented antenna option.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Biting midges of the genus Culicoides (family Ceratopogonidae) are tiny dipteran flies.
They are of high veterinary importance as vectors of pathogens like Bluetongue virus and African Horse Sickness virus.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate the morphological characteristics of biting midges:
(A) Mottled appearance of wings: The wings of Culicoides species are covered with pigmented microtrichia, forming distinct light and dark spots.
This mottled wing pattern is a key taxonomic feature used for species identification. Thus, (A) is correct.
(B) Humped thorax: The thorax of biting midges is prominently arched or humped, extending slightly over the head. This gives them a characteristic hunched appearance. Thus, (B) is correct.
(C) Piercing mouthparts: Female midges are blood-suckers and possess short but highly specialized piercing-sucking mouthparts. Thus, (C) is correct.
(D) 3-segmented antenna: Biting midges belong to the suborder Nematocera, which is characterized by long, thread-like antennae composed of multiple segments (typically 13 to 15 segments).
A 3-segmented antenna is a characteristic of the suborder Brachycera (such as horseflies and houseflies). Thus, (D) is incorrect.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Since statements (A), (B), and (C) are correct and (D) is incorrect, the correct option is (A).