Hobbies And Interests
Identification
Most adult buffalo gnats measure between 0.08 and 0.2 inches. However, some larger species can measure up to 0.6 inches. The buffalo gnat's body may be gray, black, orange or yellow in color. Large complex eyes are located on the insect's head. The rounded middle portion of the buffalo gnat's body gives the insect the appearance of having a humped back. Buffalo gnats have wide, transparent wings and two short antennae. In its larval stage, the buffalo gnat has an elongated body that is either black or gray. Mouth brushes that are used for feeding protrude from the larva's head. A number of small hooks and a single sucker allow the larvae to attach to objects such as rocks.
Habitat
Adult buffalo gnats can be found in a number of different habitats, depending on species, although they are usually found in close proximity to running water. This is because buffalo gnat larvae develop in bodies of running water, including rivers, ditches, streams, or even waterfalls. However, adult buffalo gnats may travel distances of 10 miles or more in search of food. Buffalo gnats also require habitats that have a number of animals to feed from. These gnats do not enter buildings in search of food.
Feeding Habits
Male buffalo gnats feed solely on nectar. Female buffalo gnats feed on nectar and blood. Only female mouthparts are capable of biting and sucking blood from an animal. The number of different animal species that a female buffalo gnat feeds from can range from one to more than 30. Buffalo gnats are attracted to breath, perspiration and perfumes. While many buffalo gnats will bite wild and domestic animals, few species feed from humans. Reactions to buffalo gnat bites can be the direct effect of the toxins injected by the gnat; or they may be the result of an allergic reaction. In humans, reaction to buffalo gnat bites can include fever, nausea, headaches, itching and swelling. In the larval stage, buffalo gnats feed from tiny organisms in the water around them.
Reproduction
After mating, female buffalo gnats deposit between 150 and 500 tiny white eggs. While some species deposit their eggs directly into running water, other eggs are attached to rocks or plants in running water. The egg stage usually lasts between 4 and 30 days, depending on species and water temperature. Eggs usually hatch earlier in warmer waters. Larvae usually begin to pupate after a period of between one and six months after hatching. As they enter the pupal stage, larvae create a cocoon around themselves with one open end. The adult buffalo gnat emerges from the opening after pupating; this can be as short as two days, or as long as four weeks. While some buffalo gnats in northern regions produce on generation per year, others in warmer climates may produce several generations.