What Do Mosquitoes Turn Into?
WouterGenerally, mosquitoes develop from four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The stages have special bodies designed to meet the mosquito’s specific needs. The development of each stage can vary, depending on the species and conditions. In most cases, mosquito larvae live in water. They eat bacteria and other microorganisms found in the water. Some larvae attach themselves to plants for air supply. They also use saw-like structures to pierce the stems of water plants.
The mosquito life cycle is completed in ten to 18 days. The adult stage, which emerges from the pupal casing, dries out its wings to prepare for flight. The adult mosquito’s external skeleton remains hard.
The adult female mosquito seeks an animal for a blood meal, which she uses to nourish her eggs. She can lay over 100 eggs at a time. She lays her eggs in areas that have a high likelihood of flooding or stagnant water. These eggs are usually laid singly, but they can be laid in rafts. Because of the surface attraction between the eggs, they stick together.
The mosquito larva, which is called a wiggler, grows from a tiny egg to nearly 3/8-inch in size. Its body contains hairy spines to help it float in the water. It also contains a siphon tube that allows it to breathe.
Mosquito larvae are very active. They swim by wiggling their bodies back and forth. Their spines help them to feel around. They are also capable of diving below the surface. However, they are highly vulnerable to predators.
