Final answer:
Biting midges can be more annoying than mosquitoes and have an impact on the economy by affecting tourism. Mosquito repellent is not fully effective against them, and although both feed on human blood, they may not belong to the same scientific class.
Step-by-step explanation:
Biting midges, also known as gnats, have an impact on humans which is quite significant, especially considering their size. Although they may seem harmless, biting midges can cause intense itching and are a nuisance that can even affect tourism economics, which clearly indicates that they are more annoying than mosquitoes in areas where their presence is prominent. These tiny insects not only pose a direct irritation by their bites but can potentially lead to indirect economic consequences. While mosquito repellent may provide temporary relief, it is not a long-term control solution for biting midges.
Control measures for biting midges can be challenging. The use of mosquito repellents and other conventional methods may offer temporary relief but aren't always effective due to the minute size of these insects, allowing them to pass through most screens designed to keep out larger pests like mosquitoes. While biting midges and mosquitoes are both insects that can feed on human blood, they are not necessarily classified in the same scientific group. Insect-borne diseases like malaria have been a major concern worldwide and measures like using larvivorous fishes and manipulating habitats have been employed in controlling mosquito population with variable success.