Can Mosquitoes Lay Eggs Without Water?
WouterGenerally, female mosquitoes lay their eggs in water. They may deposit them on soil, on top of water, or in damp areas. Depending on the mosquito species, these eggs may also be placed in ditches or tree holes. Most species lay eggs in clusters of 25 to 100.
The female mosquito bites humans and animals and feeds on blood. She can lay up to three batches of eggs over a lifetime.
Most female mosquitoes lay their eggs during the warmer months of the year. However, some species may lay their eggs in the rainy season. The eggs hatch when the weather warms and rain falls.
The mosquito life cycle has four stages. The larvae are the most active stage. They develop for seven to ten days and then enter the pupal stage. In the pupal stage, the mosquito cannot survive without water.
The adult mosquito flies after the body parts have hardened. It is during this stage that the mosquito relies on microorganisms found in stagnant water to survive. The adult mosquito also feeds on nectar from flowers. This feeding is normally done during the early mornings.
Depending on the mosquito species, the larvae feed on microscopic organisms. Some species prefer water that is rich in specific bacterial growth.
The larvae have four stages that are called instars. They begin by wriggling in the water and then ingesting organic matter through mouth brushes. They go through the four stages of development and develop into an adult mosquito.
