
Mosquito
Culicidae
- Order & Family
- Order: Diptera, Family: Culicidae
- Size
- Typically 3 mm to 6 mm (0.12 to 0.24 inches) in length.
Natural Habitat
Mosquitoes can be found in almost all terrestrial habitats, but they require standing water for breeding. This includes wetlands, forests, urban areas, and even small containers of water in gardens.
Diet & Feeding
Adult female mosquitoes feed on blood to obtain protein for egg development, while males and females also feed on nectar and plant juices for energy. Larvae feed on organic matter and microorganisms in water.
Behavior Patterns
Mosquitoes are crepuscular or nocturnal, meaning they are most active during dusk, dawn, and night. They are attracted to carbon dioxide, body heat, and certain chemicals in human sweat. Their life cycle involves four stages: egg, larva, pupa (all aquatic), and adult (terrestrial and aerial).
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Mosquitoes are significant vectors for numerous diseases worldwide, including Malaria, Dengue fever, Zika virus, West Nile virus, and Chikungunya. Their bites cause itchy welts in most people. Benefits: Mosquitoes serve as a food source for various animals like birds, bats, fish (larvae), and other insects. Larvae can also help filter water.