How Large Are Mosquitoes?

Wouter

Among the world’s largest mosquitoes is the Australian elephant mosquito, Toxorhynchites speciosus. Also called the “big mosquito” or the “giant mozzie,” this species is one of the largest in the world. It is also the main vector of Dengue Fever in South America. Its proboscis is a long, tube-like mouthpart that helps the mosquito extract blood from its host.

The Asian tiger mosquito, also known as Aedes albopictus, is another massive mosquito. It is found in most tropical regions. This species is very aggressive, so it can be a real threat to human health. It is able to survive a wide range of climates. It is also known to carry Zika virus. It was introduced to the US in used tires from Northern Asia in the 1980s. It can grow to between 0.05 and 0.39 inches in length.

The Gallinipper mosquito, or Psorophora ciliata, is another large mosquito. Its body reaches an average length of half an inch, making it the second-largest mosquito in the world. These mosquitoes are found in southern and central America. They have been known to cause extremely painful bites. They are reportedly able to consume a gallon of blood.

In the US, the largest mosquito is Toxorhynchites rutilus. It has wingspans of a half-inch. It is found in water-filled bromeliads and bird baths. It feeds on the larvae of other, more aggressive mosquitoes. Unlike the Australian elephant mosquito, it does not feed on human blood. It does, however, carry the heartworm disease in dogs.

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