Why Do Male Mosquitoes Bite?
WouterUnlike female mosquitoes, male mosquitoes are not bloodsuckers. They only feed on plant nectar and water. They do not need to bite humans, but they do tend to seek human scents.
Although male mosquitoes are not bloodsuckers, they do build and maintain mosquito colonies. They lay eggs in shallow stagnant water. The mosquitoes are prone to start outbreaks in a community. They also spread germs from infected animals.
The male mosquito is smaller than the female. They have shorter mandibles. They also lack a special stylet that can pierce skin. Instead, the female mosquito’s proboscis has a serrated blade that penetrates the skin to draw blood. Its mouthparts also contain tiny needle-like teeth. The saliva lubricates the mouthpart opening and helps the mosquito to pierce the skin.
The female mosquito also uses heat sensors to detect emissions from nearby mammals. These sensors allow the mosquito to locate blood sources. The female mosquito then injects a mild painkiller to keep blood flowing.
In addition to obtaining blood, female mosquitoes also need protein to develop eggs. They lay eggs every three days. Their body expands during this period. Female mosquitoes can hold up to three times their body weight in blood. They can also bite ten times to acquire blood. They can also feed on reptiles and amphibians. They can also lay up to 500 eggs during their lifetime.
The female mosquito can live for three weeks to several months. Its bite is itchy and painful. Itching can last a few days. Using ice reduces the pain and inflammation. It is also recommended that you take a few minutes to apply chamomile tea bags to the bite. It contains flavonoids and terpenoids which have antioxidant properties.
