Common Name: Mosquito
Scientific Name: Culicidae: spp
Status: A serious blood-sucking pest that can transmit diseases
Damaging Stage: Adult (female)

Biology: Most mosquitoes are �- to �- inches long and have two wings covered in scales. Males differ from females by having feathery antennae and mouthparts incapable of piercing skin. Mosquito larvae are usually black or brown and are called "wrigglers" because of their distinctive swimming style. First instar larvae are practically invisible to the naked eye, but mature larvae can be seen when they come to the surface of stagnant water. They breathe through a long siphon at the surface of the water. Larvae are "C"-shaped with an enlarged front end.

Female mosquitoes lay their eggs together in rafts on the surface of water. Most eggs hatch into larvae in about two days. The larvae live in the water for two weeks until they pupate. The pupae float on the surface of the water. The adults emerge in two days. Most mosquito species overwinter as eggs. With the exception of salt marsh mosquitoes, there is usually one generation per year.

Injury: Adult female mosquitoes can transmit a number of deadly diseases (malaria, dengue, yellow fever, West Nile and encephalitis). Mosquito larvae primarily feed on organic material, bacteria and microscopic plants in the water.

Action Threshold: Any population of mosquitoes must be treated with care. If in areas with stagnant bodies of water, mosquito repellent should be used at all times.

Management: A good way to limit mosquito populations is to minimize the available habitat in the area (remove stagnant water and other breeding sites). Biocontrols and chemical controls are also an option. Mosquito repellent should always be used to minimize contact with the insect.