All mosquito species are unique in their own way. Some species never bite people; instead they prefer birds or amphibians. Certain species prefer to feed during the daytime, while others feed at night. Regardless of their differences, all mosquito species have a similar life cycle that is dependent on water.
There are four stages in the life of a mosquito: egg, larva, pupa and adult.
- Mosquito eggs are laid so that they hatch in water.
- A larva emerges from the egg and feeds and grows in the water for about 7-10 days.
- The larva then turns into a pupa, which is also found in water but does not feed.
- After about two days, the adult mosquito that has developed inside the pupa will emerge.
- There are both male and female mosquitoes, but only the female bites because she needs the blood to provide nutrients for her eggs.
Courtesy of Leon County Mosquito Control
