The first specimens of Belgica antarctica were collected on the Belgian Antarctic Expedition (1897–1899). During this expedition organized by the Belgian Government, Romanian biologist Emil Racoviță collected, among other specimens, a flightless midge and its larvae.
The first specimens of Belgica antarctica were obtained on the Belgian Antarctic Expedition (1897–1899), which was organized by the Belgian Government. As part of this expedition, Romanian biologist Emil Racoviță also discovered other specimens, including a flightless midge and its larvae.