The Difference between Male and Female Mosquitoes

CEBU, Philippines – Although it is impossible to tell the physical differences between male and female mosquitoes with the naked eye, it is easy enough to find the distinctness when the mosquito is placed under a microscope or magnifying glass.

Speaking of Looks

In terms of physical appearance, the mosquito's proboscis, a long, needle-like antenna that extends from the area of its mouth, is the best indication of the insect's gender. Male mosquitoes have a feather-like proboscis, while the proboscis of the female mosquito is relatively smooth, not bushy. The hair on the antenna is called antennal flagellum. Believe it or not, this hair assists with hearing. Male mosquitoes use their flagellum to help locate female mosquitoes by the (very) quiet buzzing sounds they emit. The sound waves trigger the flagellum to move, this movement is then carried through to Johnston's organ, which identifies the speed of other mosquitoes' beating wings and distinguishes between males and females as well as other mosquito species.

Does One Outlive the Other?

Normally, the lifespan of the female mosquito is much longer than that of the male mosquito. In their natural environment, female mosquitoes can live as long as 1 to 2 weeks. However, in captivity, female mosquitoes can live over a month, depending on the correct level of humidity, proper temperature, and whether or not it can successfully nourish itself with blood.

On the other hand, male mosquitoes usually live for approximately 1 week, even when they are placed under ideal environmental and nutritional conditions.

Do both Genders Suck Blood?

The answer is no. Male mosquitoes survive by feeding on flower nectar and sweet juices. Female mosquitoes not only feed on various sugars for energy, but also require the nutrition of blood for the development of their eggs. Without regular intakes of blood, their ability to reproduce quickly diminishes.

The Egg Development Process of the Common Female Mosquito

The typical female mosquito bites humans and mammals and sucks blood in order to acquire enough protein to produce her eggs. When you fall prey to a mosquito bite, there are fortunately a few natural as well as store-bought remedies that will help tame the itch! Once a blood meal is obtained, she will rest a few days until the eggs are fully developed. Once they are ready, the female lays the eggs and then continues her search for a new host.

Some Particular Types of Female Mosquitoes

Even though most species of female mosquitoes need blood for their offspring, some types can actually lay a batch of eggs without a blood meal. Others do not drink the blood of mammals, but will feed only on the blood of amphibians or other insects. Then, there are a few species of female mosquitoes that do not drink blood at all; like male mosquitoes, they only feed on nectar and other sugars.

(www.tinymosquito.com)