No problem too small: The history and challenges of controlling Culicoides biting midges

Culicoides biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are the vectors of numerous pathogens of medical and veterinary importance and have further significance as the cause of annoyance and agitation in both humans and animals. Despite this, the control of biting midges historically has not received similar levels of investigation and attention as other vector and pest groups. The small size of midges (1-3mm total length) and difficulty colonizing most species has historically made evaluating and generating field relevant data on midge control particularly challenging. In this presentation, a brief history of the control of Culicoides in the United States will be highlighted as well as ongoing efforts to improve control, especially in light of a recent outbreak of a midge-borne human pathogen, Oropouche virus.