Culicoides biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are small vectors of numerous animal viruses that can significantly impact animal agriculture industries. The immature stages of this genus typically occupy semi-aquatic habitats with organically enhanced mud substrates; however, specific characteristics of larval habitats are poorly understood for most Culicoides species. Data from ongoing studies investigating the species diversity and seasonality of Culicoides communities at a field site in Kansas will be presented, emphasizing characteristics associated with confirmed and suspected vector species. These results have implications for the identification of productive larval habitats for which targeted applications of control interventions could prevent outbreaks of Culicoides-borne pathogens and limit economic losses for farmers.
