Most males of the Microtendipes genus can be distinguished from other Chironomini by the presence of one or two rows of stout, proximally directed setae on the fore femur. Additionally, some species within this genus may have a tubercle or wart-shaped median volsella on the hypopygium, often accompanied by a tuft of long setae. Species lacking these distinctive characteristics require examination of immature stages for accurate classification within the genus. The larval characteristics of Microtendipes species include a large body, typically red to orange in color and reaching lengths of up to 15 mm. The antenna consists of six segments, with the lauterborn organs alternating on the apices of segments 2 and 3. The mandible typically features three inner teeth, with the median trifid being either pale or as dark as the remaining teeth, sometimes with a very small median tooth that may be absent. Lateral and ventral tubules are usually absent in these larvae.