What's All the Buzz about Mosquitoes?

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Meet the mosquito

Mosquitoes are flying, biting insects that develop in water during their immature stages. Some of the many species found in New York are considered pests and can transmit diseases to humans. The three most important mosquito groups are the Anopheles (carrier of malaria), Culex (carrier of viral encephalitis), and Aedes (pronounced "AY-dees"; carrier of yellow fever, dengue, and encephalitis). All are less than 0.5-inch (1.3 cm) long as adults.

Although mosquitoes are usually a nuisance and sometimes dangerous to public health, most specialists agree that eradication is unrealistic. A more reasonable goal is population reduction and management below problem levels. This goal relies greatly on public education and awareness.

A mosquito's life: from water to air

 

Mosquito Life stages in water: egg raft, larva with air tubes, and pupa.  Larvae are commonly called "wrigglers" because of the way they squirm through water when disturbed or when seeking food.

Mosquitoes have four life stages: the egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Eggs are laid on the surface of water (Culex and Anopheles types) or damp soil that is soon to flood (Aedes type). Most eggs hatch within 48 hours. The larvae live in water and breathe at the surface through tubes. Larvae, or wrigglers, feed on organic debris and microorganisms in the water, then molt into pupae, a resting stage that remains in the water. During this time the mosquito develops into an adult. After two days the pupal skin splits and the adult emerges. The length of this life cycle varies by species from 4­30 days.

An adult female mosquito usually must take a blood meal before laying eggs. Females have elongated piercing-sucking mouthparts used to penetrate skin and ingest blood from the host. A component of mosquito saliva prevents blood clotting and causes itching and swelling. Saliva is the means for disease movement into the host. Blood protein is used to produce and mature the eggs. Male mosquitoes feed on nectar, not on blood. Their mouthparts are not designed for piercing.

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These pages are maintained by the New York State IPM Program, part of Cornell Cooperative Extension. All material is protected by Section 107 of the 1976 copyright law. Copyright is held by Cornell University and the New York State IPM Program.