Why Mosquitoes Bite Certain People
WouterUsing a combination of clues, mosquitoes track humans. They are also able to differentiate between species. They may try to locate people by following carbon dioxide breadcrumbs or by smelling body odor.
Certain bacteria on the human skin secrete chemicals that attract mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are attracted to people who have more of these bacteria. They are also attracted to pregnant women, who are more attractive because of their increased body temperature. Interestingly, a study in Africa found that the number of mosquitoes attracted to a woman was twice as high as it was to a non-pregnant person.
Scientists have been trying to understand why mosquitoes prefer some people over others. Until now, they have been unable to figure out exactly how this happens. However, a new study suggests that human-specific odors are a major factor in the selection process.
The amount of carbon dioxide released by a person is one of the most important factors in determining whether a person will be bitten by a mosquito. Larger individuals produce more carbon dioxide and release it into the air. This makes them more likely to get bitten by a mosquito.
The blood type of a person is also a factor. There are four main blood types: A, B, AB and O. A person with the blood group O is less likely to contract severe malaria.
Another major factor is a person’s sweat. Bacteria on the skin metabolize the components of sweat, and the resulting odorous byproducts are very attractive to mosquitoes.
