Can Mosquitoes Live in Saltwater?

Wouter

During the summer months, salt marshes in the US attract a large population of mosquitoes. Some species are tolerant to brackish water while others prefer clean, nutrient-rich waters. Those with venom require the eggs to dry out before laying them.

Researchers conducted studies on nine different mosquito species, including Aedes aegypti, Aedes taeniorhynchus, Aedes albopictus and Aedes triseriatus. These species lay eggs in various water habitats.

Aedes aegypti, which is known as the Asian tiger mosquito, can breed in temporary bodies of freshwater, such as floodwaters. Aedes taeniorhynchus, which is a common mosquito in California and the Atlantic coast, can also be found in salt marshes.

The study investigated the effects of salt concentration on the development and biological cycle of Aedes aegypti populations from the plateau regions of southeastern Brazil. The concentration of salt in the diet was based on the product description of the most commonly available salt-based mosquito-control device.

Researchers tested five locations and nine different species of mosquitoes. The researchers recorded the number of dead mosquitoes every day. During the first three days of the trials, caged mosquitoes were offered four diets: salt water, sugar water, sugar water with a pinch of salt, and freshwater.

The salt concentration in the haemolymph (the main organ of the mosquito) was increased for two days when it was transferred to sea water. This was in contrast to the results for the diets that contained only water. The concentration of sodium in the haemolymph decreased for two days when it was transferred to freshwater. The salt concentration in the diet was only slightly higher than the concentration in human blood.

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