Chironomus is a genus of non-biting midges, commonly found in aquatic habitats. These insects are crucial in freshwater ecology and are known by different names based on regional variations. Some of the synonyms for the term "chironomus" include red midge, phantom midge, bloodworm, or larva. These names typically refer to different stages of the insect's lifecycle, with "bloodworm" and "larva" being the most common when referring to the worm-like, immature stage of the insect. The name "chironomid" is also sometimes used, which is a broader term referring to the entire family of non-biting midges, including the chironomus genus. Regardless of the name, these insects serve important roles in freshwater food webs and are essential for healthy aquatic ecosystems.