komár

Komár, also known as the common house mosquito (*Culex pipiens*), is a small, flying insect belonging to the family Culicidae, which includes all true mosquitoes. These insects are widely distributed across the globe, thriving in various climates and environments. Komáry are known for their slender bodies, long legs, and elongated proboscis, which they use to pierce the skin of their hosts to feed on blood.

The life cycle of komár consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Females lay their eggs in stagnant or still water, where the larvae hatch and develop. The larval stage is aquatic, with the larvae feeding on organic matter in the water. After molting several times, they transform into pupae, which eventually emerge as adult mosquitoes. The adult stage is the only one where komáry are capable of flight, allowing them to seek out hosts for blood meals and mates.

Komáry are significant vectors for various diseases, including West Nile virus, encephalitis, and filariasis. Their bites can cause irritation, swelling, and itching in humans and animals, often leading to allergic reactions. To prevent infestations, it is recommended to eliminate standing water where larvae can develop, use insect repellents, and wear protective clothing.

In some cultures, komáry are associated with folklore and superstitions, often symbolizing annoyance or disease. Efforts to control their populations involve biological methods, such as introducing natural predators like fish or bacteria, as well as chemical pesticides. Public health initiatives also focus on education and awareness to reduce human exposure to mosquito-borne illnesses.