The term "no see um" refers to a colloquial name for a type of small insect, particularly midges or biting gnats, that are often difficult to see due to their minute size. These tiny insects belong to the Ceratopogonidae family and are known for their irritating bites and ability to be almost invisible to the naked eye.
Measuring only a few millimeters in length, no see ums are so diminutive that they are commonly missed or go unnoticed until they start biting. Due to their small size, these pests can enter indoor spaces through small openings such as cracks or screens, causing annoyance and discomfort to humans and animals alike.
No see ums are prevalent in areas with marshes, swamps, lakes, or other bodies of water, as they require damp environments for breeding and development. They are most active during warmer months, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Their bites often result in itchy, red welts that can persist for several days. Unlike mosquitoes, these insects have a relatively short lifespan, and while they can cause considerable annoyance, they are not known to transmit any significant diseases.
To combat the presence of no see ums, measures such as using insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and installing fine mesh screens on windows and doors can prove effective in preventing their entry and subsequent bites.
