Ecology of the biting midge Leptoconops albiventris in French Polynesia. I. Biting cycle and influence of climatic factors.

The diurnal biting cycle of Leptoconops albiventris de Meijere (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) is described from beaches of Nuku-Hiva, French Polynesia. Biting activity increased during the morning, diminished during the afternoon and was sufficiently intense to constitute a nuisance throughout the whole day. Correspondence Analysis indicated that climatic factors influenced biting activity. Activity was initiated by and positively associated with sunshine, whereas high temperatures, increased wind speed and rainfall were factors limiting activity. Decreased density of females during the dry season and their low capacity for dispersal were considered potentially advantageous with respect to control.