How Do Mosquitoes Make Babies?
WouterDepending on the mosquito species, development time can vary between a few days to a few weeks. The average development time for mosquito larvae is seven to ten days. However, the length of the larval stage depends on the temperature. The water temperature also plays an important role in the development of mosquito larvae. During colder seasons, mosquitoes develop more slowly.
The female mosquito lays eggs individually or in groups. Some species deposit eggs in moist soil or tree holes. Other species deposit eggs on the surface of water. Most other species deposit their eggs in ditches and standing water.
The adult mosquito emerges from the pupal case at the surface of the water. This is the first step in the life cycle. In a few days, the body parts of the insect harden, and the mosquito flies. It is at this point that the mosquito begins to feed on its host.
The female mosquito’s first blood meal is required for her to start laying eggs. In addition to the protein needed to make eggs, she needs blood for nutrients. She also stores sperm for fertilization. The male mosquito waits until the sperm is ready to mate.
When the female mosquito lays eggs, it does so in the night. The number of eggs she lays will vary according to the type of blood she takes. Some females will only take the blood of birds or reptiles, but other females will ingest blood from a wide range of hosts.
