How Long Do Mosquitoes Live in Water?
WouterDuring the life of a mosquito, there are four major stages: Larva, Pupa, Adult, and Flying Insect. Each stage has its own lifespan and the life span of a mosquito depends on its species characteristics.
Mosquito larvae are aquatic creatures that live and grow in water. They feed on bacteria, algae, plankton, and small food particles. Their mouth brushes are fan-shaped and they filter microorganisms towards their mouths. They can survive in water that has been contaminated with chemicals. Some mosquito larvae can also survive in acid water.
After the larva develops, it lives in water for four to eight days. It molts four times during its growth. After the fourth instar, the larva stops feeding.
The mosquito pupa develops from the larva for two to three days. They are light and float. When disturbed, they dive back to the surface of the water to take in air. Their specialized breathing siphon helps them get air.
After a few days, the mosquito pupa becomes an adult. Mosquito adults feed on blood and nectar from flowers. During the daytime, they rest on vegetation. In the evening, they feed on nectar. These feedings are usually done in the early morning or late evening.
Adult mosquitoes are found in lakes, rivers, marshes, swamps, and other permanent bodies of water. They can also be found in landscape ponds. These insects are also known to bite humans, especially during the warm summer months. They transmit diseases such as yellow fever, dengue fever, and chikungunya.
