Mosquito

Natural Habitat

Mosquitoes are found globally in a wide variety of habitats, especially near standing water sources such as ponds, marshes, ditches, and containers, where they lay their eggs. Adults are often found in shaded, humid areas.

Diet & Feeding

Adult female mosquitoes feed on blood from humans and other animals to obtain protein for egg development. Male mosquitoes and, at times, females feed on nectar and plant juices for energy.

Behavior Patterns

Mosquitoes undergo a complete metamorphosis with four stages: egg, larva, pupa (all aquatic), and adult. Females are known for their biting behavior, which is most common during dusk and dawn, or sometimes during the day, depending on the species. They are attracted to carbon dioxide, body heat, and certain body odors.

Risks & Benefits

Mosquitoes are primarily known for the risks they pose as vectors of numerous serious diseases, including Malaria, Dengue fever, Zika virus, West Nile virus, Chikungunya, and Yellow fever. Their bites also cause itchy welts. Benefits are indirect and include serving as a food source for other animals (birds, bats, fish) in their larval and adult stages, and some species contribute to pollination as they feed on nectar.

Identified on: 9/5/2025