Mosquito species
There are approximately 2,700 different species of mosquitoes throughout the world, and the United States is home to 150 varieties. Species will vary in appearance, location, feeding habits, and in their threat to humans.
The following mosquitoes are the most common species found in the United States and Canada:
Aedes albopictus: Also known as the Asian tiger mosquito, it is associated with the transmission of dengue fever, eastern equine encephalitis, and heartworm. It is native to the continent of Asia and was most likely brought to the U.S. through shipments of scrap tires from northern Asia.
It is a small mosquito with distinctive white scales on its thorax, and black and white scales on its abdomen and legs. It is an aggressive daytime biter.
Culex pipiens: Also known as the northern house mosquito, it is the most common species found in urban areas. It is believed to be primarily responsible for the transmission of the West Nile virus to humans, birds and other mammals.
It is brown and has white markings on its legs and mouth parts. It prefers to attack at dusk and after dark.
Anopheles quadrimaculatus: It is the chief carrier of malaria in the eastern, central and southern United States.
It is brown and has three long projections on its head. There are white patches on the wing-veins of many of the more dangerous anopheline mosquitoes. It is active after dusk and just before dawn.
The above most common mosquito species are found throughout North America. There are countless numbers of species that are specific to certain states and locations throughout the country as well.
For a comprehensive listing of mosquito species, visit the Wild Life Information site.
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