Mosquito

Natural Habitat

Mosquitoes are found globally in a wide variety of habitats, especially those with standing water for breeding. This includes wetlands, forests, urban areas, and even small pools of water in containers.

Diet & Feeding

Female mosquitoes feed on blood (hematophagy) to obtain proteins for egg production. Both male and female mosquitoes feed on nectar, plant sap, and other sugar sources for energy.

Behavior Patterns

Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk (crepuscular), though some species are active during the day. Females bite to obtain a blood meal for egg development. They lay eggs in standing water, which hatch into larvae that feed on microorganisms, then pupate into adults. Adults typically live for a few weeks.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks: Mosquitoes are vectors for numerous diseases including Malaria, Dengue fever, Zika virus, West Nile virus, Chikungunya, and various forms of encephalitis. Their bites can also cause localized itching and allergic reactions. Potential benefits: Mosquito larvae serve as food for aquatic animals, and adult mosquitoes are a food source for birds, bats, and other insects.

Identified on: 9/4/2025