Mosquito

Natural Habitat

Mosquitoes are found globally, except in Antarctica. They thrive in areas with standing water, necessary for reproduction, such as marshes, swamps, stagnant puddles, old tires, flowerpots, and drainage ditches. They are common in warm, humid climates and are often found near human habitation.

Diet & Feeding

Female mosquitoes feed on blood to obtain protein for egg development, while both male and female mosquitoes feed on plant nectars and other sugar sources for energy.

Behavior Patterns

Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk (crepuscular) but can bite at any time. Females lay eggs in standing water (even small amounts like bottle caps or tire ruts). Larvae and pupae live in water. Adults fly and search for blood meals (females) or nectar (males and females). They are attracted to carbon dioxide, body heat, and certain chemicals.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Mosquitoes are significant vectors for numerous diseases globally, including Malaria, Dengue fever, Zika virus, West Nile virus, Chikungunya, and various forms of Encephalitis. Their bites can also cause localized itchy welts and allergic reactions. Benefits: Mosquitoes play a role in their ecosystems as a food source for other animals (birds, bats, fish, amphibians, dragonflies) and as pollinators for some plants, though their benefit as pollinators is less significant than other insects.

Identified on: 9/3/2025