How Big Can a Mosquito Grow?
WouterAmong the Culicidae, or midges, mosquitoes are small insects with three body segments. They have long, many-segmented antennae, which are essential for odor detection. These animals are also known as wigglers because they wiggle wildly when disturbed.
Depending on the species, mosquitos may be up to 19 mm in length. The largest known mosquito is the Australian elephant mosquito, which reaches a length of half an inch. Other mosquitoes are about the same size. Some species can develop from egg to adult in as little as five days.
In order to survive, mosquitoes need stagnant water. These areas can include pools, bird baths, and storm sewers.
A female mosquito lays an egg on the surface of the water. The egg hatches and the larvae feed on algae and organic matter in the water. The larvae molt several times before developing into a pupa. When the larvae become pupae, they breathe through siphon-like devices. The siphon tube at the end of the abdomen is designed for food digestion.
Once the pupae is complete, the adult mosquito emerges. The head is specialized for feeding, while the body and legs are specialized for sensory information. The wings of the adult mosquito are brilliantly patterned. The body of the adult is generally slender, about 0.1-0.3 inches long. The adult weighs about 5 mg. The female mosquito is able to hold more than three times its own weight in blood.
During the larval stage, mosquitoes eat algae and organic material in the water. The larvae then dive to the bottom to feed. Some mosquito species feed on other mosquito larvae.
