Mosquito

Near standing water, wetlands, marshes, and residential areas worldwide.

Females feed on blood for protein to develop eggs; males and non-reproducing females feed on plant nectar and fruit juices.

Active mostly at dawn and dusk, females locate hosts via carbon dioxide, heat, and chemical cues. Lays eggs in stagnant water.

Risks include acting as major vectors for serious diseases like malaria, dengue, Zika, and West Nile virus. Benefits include serving as a food source for birds, bats, and fish in aquatic ecosystems.