MOSQUITOES - HABITS

BIONOMICS & HABITS

Those casually acquainted with mosquitoes may believe that all types are much the same, and indeed the similarities between species are considerable.

Many differences in appearances from species to species even among some varieties within species.

These morphological differences, especially notable in the larval and adult stages, permit accurate identification of most species.

Behavioral differences permit various species to occupy numerous ecological & niches with relatively little overlap Thus the knowledge of the source or breeding habitat of mosquitoes can provide strong Clues to their identification

Mosquito control requires knowledge of the behavioral and habitat differences among species in order to plan and carry out a treatment program.

Mosquitoes are not adapted to life in following waters, but they can occupy the quit pools and seepage areas near flowing streams Aquatic environments differ chiefly in the chemistry of the water (acid or alkaline fresh, salt or brackish)

Most mosquitoes can be categorized in general terms by their preference for permanent water floodwater transient water or artificial container and tree hole habitats.

These categories can be combined into two major larval habitats,

Standing water (Permanent & transient)

Flood water (Including natural & artificial containers as well as flood water)

Standing water standing water deposit their eggs (either singly or in rafts) on the surface of permanent or transient pools of standing water They usually produce several generations (broods) each year and over winter or survive harsh environmental circumstances as mated, engorged females.

In contrast floodwater species deposit their eggs out of the water but in locations subject to periodic flooding, such as damp soil in depressions or inside tree holes, crab holes and artificial containers.

They produce one to several broods annually and over winter or survive harsh environmental circumstances in the egg stage. Mosquitoes are adoptable to changing environmental conditions and are thus associated with multiple habitat types.