In a food-habits study of young largemouth bass at the National Fish Hatchery, Marion, Alabama, midges were found to comprise 80 to 90 percent of the total food volume in fish from 25 to 55 millimeters in length. Since midges were found to be such an abundant food item in the diet of these fish, attempts were made to increase the midge crop by providing additional surface area in the pond for attachment. It was found that ponds having a dominant blue-green algae bloom (Anacystis spp. and Anabaena spp.) produced more midges than ponds having a dominant green algae bloom (Oocystis spp., Chlarella spp., anti Coelustrum spp.). Black polyethylene sheets, lh-inch masonite board, and 14-inch cement-asbestos board, plus concrete and clay-tile building blocks were oriented in different positions in a pond to determine which material and position were most productive. The masonite board proved to produce the most midges. Polyethylene sheet was next most productive. Of the three positions in which the sheet materials were tested; vertical (0°); horizontal (90°); and a 45° slant - the 45° position produced the most midges. Building blocks produced fewer midges than sheet materials and were more difficult to work with.
