Mosquitoes are pretty annoying creatures. They suck our blood and leave red, itchy marks all over our bodies. They make a very annoying sound that warns us that they are near and ready to attack. The list could go on and on.
But this article is not about how annoying these pests are. Bites aside, they’re actually pretty interesting insects. That’s why we decided to write this article: to teach you a little bit more about mosquitoes. Maybe understanding them better will enable you to fight them better.
1. There are about 3,000 different mosquito species on Earth
Thanks to evolution, mosquitoes have adapted to many different living conditions. So now, mosquito species can be found all over the world, from the equator to the Arctic tundra and everywhere in between. This evolution and adaption to different climates is also one of the main reasons why one mosquito repellent won’t work equally well on all mosquitoes.
How can you use this knowledge against them?
With so many different species out there, you really need to know what types of mosquitoes can be found where you are to know the best way to combat them.
2. Only female mosquitoes need our blood, but not for food
We all know that mosquitoes bite us to get to our blood. A lot of people know that only female mosquitoes do this. But, did you know that they don’t feed on our blood?
Females mosquitoes suck our blood because they need it for reproduction. They use the protein in blood to develop their eggs and produce new mosquitoes. Mosquitoes feed mainly on flower nectar, plant juice, and different organic particles. So, the next time a mosquito bites you, you’ll know that they only are doing so to continue their species, not to annoy you.
How can you use this knowledge against them?
By killing that mosquito that just bit you, there will be one less female mosquito in the world. This means that there is one less mosquito around with the ability to create thousands of additional mosquitoes.
3. Mosquitoes are very fertile insects
Female mosquitoes can live from 3–100 days, depending on the species. One female mosquito female can lay from 100–300 eggs at a time, on average. They’re also able to do this many times during their short lifespan. Their favorite place to breed is in standing water.
How can you use this knowledge against them?
By eliminating all standing water from your property, you might reduce mosquito breeding. This will not only reduce the mosquitoes in your yard but maybe their total numbers as well.
4. Mosquitoes spread more than just malaria
One of the most well-known mosquito-borne diseases is malaria. This disease has killed many people. But actually, mosquitoes are the carriers of many other dangerous diseases. For example, some mosquito species carry illnesses like yellow fever and dengue fever. Some, like ticks, also carry encephalitis. Many mosquitoes carry heartworm, which is dangerous to cats and dogs.
How can you use this knowledge against them?
Knowing about these diseases is the first step. You can keep an eye out for symptoms, invest in mosquito protection, and so on.
5. Mosquitoes have very poor eyesight
Surprisingly, mosquitoes can only see about 30 ft. (10 m) in distance. Even then, they aren’t good at distinguishing shapes. Their thermal receptors located on the tip of their antennae are what lets them know that a blood source is nearby. These work at only about 10 ft. (3 m) from objects, but this distance increases in more humid environments.
How can you use this knowledge against them?
Now you know why mosquitoes attack more on humid days or near water. They simply can see you better and can attack you more efficiently. This means that you should use more protection or avoid being outside on humid days.
6. Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide, body odor, and body heat
There are many different myths about what attracts or repels mosquitoes. The truth is that mosquitoes are mainly attracted to carbon dioxide, body odor, and body heat. This is why movement might also attract mosquitoes because our bodies produce more heat when we’re moving around.
So, by eating a banana, you won’t be more attractive to mosquitoes. Wearing perfume, though, will increase your scent and mosquitoes will be more attracted to you. Studies have shown that people drinking beer are more attractive to mosquitoes and that they also like the scent of cheese. Scents like garlic won’t repel mosquitoes and using vitamin B12 won’t help your chances of repelling mosquitoes, either.
How can you use this knowledge against them?
The next time you plan to spend time outside during mosquito season, don’t wear perfume, try to move as little as possible, and don’t drink beer. This will keep you from being extra attractive to the pests.