Mosquito (Culex)

About the Mosquito (Culex)

The primary vector for West Nile virus, Japanese encephalitis, and lymphatic filariasis. They breed in standing water and can develop from egg to adult in 7-10 days. A single female can lay 300 eggs in her lifetime. They are most active at dawn and dusk. They are attracted to dark colors, body heat, and lactic acid. Over 1,000 Culex species exist. They overwinter as fertilized adult females. They can transmit heartworm to dogs and cats. Control efforts cost billions annually worldwide. They have been around for 100 million years.