Why Does Mosquitoes Exist?

Despite being considered a nuisance, mosquitoes have many functions in the ecosystem. They are an important pollinator, serve as a food source for other species and can even help clean the environment. However, they are often maligned for their ability to carry diseases.

They are part of the nematocerid fly family and are distributed all over the world. They can be found on every continent except Antarctica. Their life cycle is simple: an egg is laid on a water surface. Then the larvae feed on microorganisms in the water, and eventually grow into an adult.

They are also an important food source for other species, including fish, damselflies, dragonflies, and tadpoles. They are also a major food source for migratory birds.

The largest number of known species is more than three thousand. There are over 300 species in Australia alone. They are generally found in warm tropical climates. The oldest known mosquito is 79 million years old.

The female mosquito’s abdomen is specialized for egg development and digestion. The abdomen is also large enough to hold three times its own weight in blood. This blood serves as a source of protein for the eggs.

The male mosquito’s function is less obvious. They perform species-specific dances and are attracted to females with certain chemicals. Some of these species are also able to sense the frequency of wing beats.

There are some species that are predatory, eating other mosquito species. These include gambusia and Uranotaenia sapphirina.

Continue reading:

Can Mosquitoes Become Invisible? How Many Mosquitoes Can Be in Your House? Are Mosquitoes Bad For Rabbits? Are Lavender Plants Good For Mosquitoes? Are Mosquitoes More Attracted to Pregnant Women? Will Mosquitoes Bite You Multiple Times? Where Can I Find Mosquitoes? Where Does Mosquitoes Go in the Winter Time?