Categorizing mosquitoes based on three general breeding environments

Control Solutions Inc.

When conducting your inspection for a mosquito service, observe the various breeding sites and water availability around the property. Water that has collected in ditches, stagnant ponds, tree holes and artificial containers can attract and support different types of mosquitoes.

All mosquitoes require water for development, but depending on the species, they have preferences for which type of water source they use. Some prefer cleaner water, while others prefer murky water filled with rich organic matter. Some prefer permanent water bodies, while others prefer more temporary ones.

We can categorize this pest based on three general breeding environments:

1. Container-breeding mosquitoes lay their eggs individually above the waterline in plant saucers, birdbaths, pots, tarps, gutters, tires and other objects. Common species include Yellow fever (Aedes aegypti) and Asian tiger (A. albopictus) mosquitoes.
2. Stagnant water mosquitoes lay their eggs in rafts on the surface of standing water like neglected swimming pools or ornamental ponds. Common species include northern house (Culex pipiens), southern house (C. quinquefasciatus) and western encephalitis (C. tarsalis) mosquitoes.
3. Floodwater mosquitoes, such as the inland floodwater species (A. vexans), lay their eggs in the soil around the edge of puddles and low-lying areas in fields or pastures where water collects. Eggs are quite resilient and can remain dormant for a long time, waiting for a rain event to trigger a hatch.