More than 3,000 species of mosquitoes are known to exist worldwide.
Mosquitoes are nuisances during warm months in Southern California. Male mosquitoes do not bite, but some female mosquitoes feed on blood and transmit diseases to humans and animals. After a meal, female mosquitoes lay eggs on the surface of standing water. California is home to more than 50 species of mosquitoes. Does this Spark an idea?
Aedes
Mosquitoes belonging to the Aedes genus are characterized by short abdomens with light bands surrounding each section. They also have short palpi, which are sensory appendages attached to the mouthparts of mosquitoes. Species of mosquitoes from the Aedes genus include Aedes albopictus, Aedes deserticola and Aedes taeniorhynchus.
Anopheles
Female Anopheles mosquitoes are the only variety that transmits malaria to humans. Unlike other species, Anopheles mosquitoes stick their abdomens upward when resting. They are also distinguished by the black and white scales on their wings and their long palpi. Anopheles hermsi is one species from this genus that is native to Southern California.
Culex
Culex mosquitoes are known to transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, avian malaria and filariasis. These mosquitoes have narrow wings with visible veins. They have blunt abdomens and short palpus connected to their mouthpieces. Culex mosquitoes do not have bristles on their prespiracular and postspiracular areas. Varieties found in California include Culex restuans and Culex territans.
Uranotaenia
The only variety of Uranotaenia mosquitoes found in Southern California is the Uranotaenia anhydor. They are found mostly in Death Valley and feed on chickens, toads and frogs. They are characterized by their short palpi and lack of postspiracular bristles. Their prespiracular area has very few bristles. Uranotaenia anhydor mosquitoes have one or two stripes or patches on their wings.
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