Aedes Mosquitoes

Understanding Aedes Mosquitoes

Aedes is a genus type of mosquito that includes over 700 different species. This particular type of mosquito consists of white eyes, and black and white stripes that provide a very fascinating appearance. A fully grown Aedes is approximately 6-10mm long. This particular mosquito was originally found in the tropical and sub-tropical zones, however, today it is present in all the continents except Antarctica.

Where They Prefer to Stay

It is possible to discover Aedes eggs inside exterior objects that harbor water. These may include rain barrels, roof tanks, children’s pools, used tires, and garden pots provided it is an ideal spot for the female Aedes to lay her eggs. It is therefore of paramount importance to get rid of items that trap water in order to limit chances of mosquitoes breeding around your home.

Lifecycle of Aedes Mosquito

The Aedes mosquito’s life-cycle comprises of four main stages, namely the egg, larva, pupa, and adult stage. This particular lifecycle usually begins when the female Aedes lays her eggs on a stagnant pool of water. These eggs later hatch, whereby it is possible for a larva to emerge the same day provided that there are favorable environmental conditions.

Immediately after a period of four days, the larva naturally transforms itself into a pupa and still remains inside the water for another 48 hours before it becomes a fully grown adult with capabilities of flying, breeding, and feeding itself independently.

Three days after graduating into the adult stage, it becomes possible for the female Aedes to begin breeding provided that she can find a blood meal. The female Aedes will then proceed and lay her eggs on water and a new Aedes life cycle begins again. Generally, Aedes mosquitoes have a lifespan of around 14 days, but this can be prolonged as long as the prevailing environmental conditions are sustainable.

Transmission of Diseases

Aedes are known to transmit very serious diseases, some of which are potentially fatal and have been responsible for deaths across the globe. Some of these diseases include yellow fever and dengue fever that are known to manifest themselves inside a human body through various distressing symptoms such as muscle and joint pain, fever, jaundice, and influenza. Aedes is also known to be responsible for human lymphatic filariasis that causes elephantiasis.

The female Aedes usually provides nourishment to her eggs by feeding on human blood and this is why it is very dangerous with human beings. On the other hand, male Aedes primarily feed on nectar and do not bite human beings. Aedes also acts as a vector for various viral pathogens.

Aedes has a very unique biting behavior because it primarily bites during the day. It is usually very active for about two hours immediately after sunrise and several hours before the sun sets. However, it can still bite at night provided a sufficient amount of light exists. This particular mosquito generally bites individuals on their backs by approaching them from behind. Even though it prefers biting human beings, it can also bite other domestic animals such as cats and dogs.

How to Control Aedes

• Ensure the yard is free from any water filled containers
• Tree holes and other cavities inside plants should be filled with either sand or soil so that rain water does not get trapped inside
• Always check for various hidden water bodies such as clogged drains, manholes, septic tanks, and wells