How Heavy is a Mosquito?
WouterSeveral mosquito species can be found in North America. The Asian tiger mosquito, for example, is the largest mosquito in the world. It can grow to lengths of up to 1.5 inches. It is not a blood feeder, but it feeds on the larvae of more aggressive mosquitoes.
There are 52 mosquito species in Massachusetts. Some are indiscriminate, while others are shy and selective. Some prefer to breed in flooded areas.
The Ochlerotatus cantator mosquito, for example, is found in Central Massachusetts, but it is not considered to be a common pest. The species has been collected in the region and is known to spread the West Nile Virus, Heartworm, bird Malaria, and Western Equine Encephalitis.
The Gallinipper mosquito is a species of North American and South American mosquitoes. It can grow to a length of nearly an inch, and has been reported as being very painful. Unlike the Asian tiger mosquito, the Gallinipper has an extremely long proboscis, which allows it to feed day and night.
The Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is the main vector of Dengue Fever and Yellow Fever in North and South America, is also found in the region. It is a univoltine mosquito, meaning that it lives in pairs.
Another mosquito that can be found in the area is the Ochlerotatus fitchii. This species is found in southern Canada and the eastern seaboard of the United States. It has a wide distribution, extending from Maine to northern Nevada. It is found in freshwater habitat runoff, such as ponds and swamps.
