Identification
This tiny bug, less than 4mm long, is among the most primitive in North America; it was photographed and identified by Tony Palmer, and verified by BugGuide. Its common name stems from their habit of forming large nuptial swarms, usually at dusk. They prey on soft bodies arthropods, especially springtails and symphylans (small millipede-like creatures found in soil). Their raptorial front legs are used to grasp their prey. Their long heads are divided into bulbous sections, hence the name unique-headed bug.
They are usually found in forest litter, under stones, in rotten logs, and sometimes under bark. They are probably common but are rarely seen because of their size and habitat preference.
Gnat bugs are found worldwide. There are six described species in the genus Systelloderes and many undescribed species.
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