| Belgica antarctica | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Diptera |
| Suborder: | Nematocera |
| Family: | Chironomidae |
| Genus: | Belgica |
| Species: | B. antarctica |
| Binomial name | |
| Belgica antarctica Jacobs, 1900 |
|
Belgica antarctica is a species of flightless midge endemic to the continent of Antarctica. At 2–6 mm long, it is the largest purely terrestrial animal on the continent, as well as its only true insect.[1] Its flightlessness may be an adaptation to prevent wind from blowing it into inhospitable sites.[1] It can survive the freezing of its body fluids and has a life span of two years, with the two growing seasons it is able to accumulate the energy needed to reproduce. With its deep purplish black coloration it is able to absorb heat to survive. It is also able to tolerate large changes in salinity and pH and can survive without oxygen for 2-4 weeks. Belgica antarctica can survive dehydration up to 35% of its normal original body weight.
Data related to Belgica antarctica at Wikispecies