mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are small flying insects belonging to the family Culicidae in the order Diptera. There are thousands of described species worldwide. Most feed on nectar, while the females require a blood meal to develop their eggs; males do not drink blood.

Life cycle and biology: Mosquitoes undergo complete metamorphosis with four life stages—egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Eggs are laid on or near water and hatch into aquatic larvae (wigglers). The larvae grow into pupae, then emerge as winged adults. Depending on species and climate, the life cycle from egg to adult can take about a week or longer.

Anatomy and behavior: Adults have a long proboscis for feeding and wings often with scales. The sexes can be distinguished by their antennae and mouthparts. Females seek blood meals to obtain nutrients for egg production; males feed on nectar. Many species bite at dawn or dusk, but some, such as Aedes, are active during the day, while Culex often bite at night.

Habitat and distribution: Mosquitoes are found worldwide, with greatest diversity in warm, humid regions. They breed in standing water, including natural wetlands, containers, tires, and other artificial or natural receptacles. Vector status varies by species: Anopheles is associated with malaria, Aedes with dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever, and Culex with West Nile virus and certain filarial diseases.

Public health and control: Mosquitoes are important disease vectors in many areas. Control measures focus on eliminating standing water, personal protection (repellents, clothing), bed nets, and targeted larviciding or insecticide applications. Resistance and ecological considerations influence management strategies, while mosquitoes also play roles as pollinators and as part of ecosystems.