Peril on Wings: Most Dangerous Mosquitoes

25 Oct,2023

Credit: Google Images

An intensely black mosquito, distinguishable by its pointed abdomen and two white stripes in the shape of a lyre on its back (the dorsal thorax), and white bands on its legs.

Credit: Google Images

Aedes Aegypti: Yellow Fever Mosquito

The insect is usually larger and more intensely black than Aedes aegypti, but with the same pointed abdomen. It has striking white stripes, including one white stripe down the middle of its back.

Credit: Google Images

Aedes Albopictus: Asian Tiger Mosquito

A nondescript brownish insect, with a rounded abdomen. This is usually the one you will hear buzzing in your ear at night. It will overwinter in your attic if it can.

Culex Pipiens: Northern House Mosquito

Credit: Google Images

Distinguishable by its rounded abdomen and light-colored band around its proboscis. They breed in “enormous numbers” typically in agricultural runoff and in ditches.

Credit: Google Images

Culex Tarsalis

The dark brown insects are recognizable by long palpi, or tasting organs, which are almost the same length as its proboscis, or mouthparts. It rests on surfaces diagonally, with its head down and abdomen jutting into the air.

Credit: Google Images

Anopheles Quadrimaculatus: Common Malaria Mosquito

These straw-color insects are noted for the way their abdomens lift into the air when they sit. Their wings are dotted with dark spots. The female’s clear belly will turn red and swell when full of blood.

Credit: Google Images

Anopheles Freeborni