How Do Mosquitoes Take Care of Their Young?
WouterWhether you’re dealing with a backyard mosquito infestation or a more serious problem like the Asian tiger mosquito, it’s important to understand the life cycle of mosquitoes. These aquatic creatures are responsible for spreading disease. They’ve evolved to be able to survive in all kinds of climates and habitats. Their lives are divided into four stages.
The larva stage, or pupa, is the first stage of development. It’s important for the mosquito to survive. In the larval stage, the mosquito’s body consists of a series of special cells that are formed by a wriggling motion. The larvae feed on bacteria and algae found in the water. They are about 1/4-inch long when they hatch.
As the mosquito larvae grow, they go through several stages known as instars. They grow until they reach about 5 mm in length. The larvae’s twitching motion propels them around the water, making them easier to see in clear, shallow water.
They enter a pupal stage within seven to ten days. As the larvae enter the pupal stage, they’re not actively feeding. They’re still susceptible to predators, and they can also be found on homeowners’ properties.
When the pupae is ready to mature, it breaks open at the top and becomes an adult mosquito. It then dries out its wings and prepares for flight. The adult mosquito lives for several weeks to several months.
Some species of mosquitoes lay their eggs in water, such as in a bird bath or in a water bowl. Others deposit eggs in moist soil, such as in ditches or tree holes. Some female mosquitoes lay up to 100 eggs at a time.
