How Do Mosquitoes Reproduce?

Mosquitoes are not only a pesky insect that cause irritating bites. They are also vectors of blood-borne diseases that affect both humans and animals. Understanding the basic reproductive cycle of the mosquito can help to control the pests, before they become a health concern.

Location

• Mosquitoes reproduce in standing bodies of water. They can breed and mature in water sources as small as a hoof print or trashcan. Generally, species require two weeks to complete breeding and maturation.

Eggs

• Female mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water or soft soil that will soon contain water. Eggs are laid individually and one female can lay a hundred eggs or more. Depending upon the species of mosquito, eggs float on the surface of the water -- either individually -- or as a raft of eggs stuck together.

Maturation

• Withing 24 hours of laying, larva emerge from mosquito eggs and populate the standing water. Larva breathe air at the water surface and molt 4 times, before emerging as pupa. Pupa float at the water's surface and are known as tumblers. Adult mosquitoes emerge from the pupal case after one to four days.

Control

• Mosquito reproduction is controlled by eliminating any sources of standing water. Empty man-made vessels or control large pools with effective larvacide. Natural sources of standing water managed to ensure efficient drainage, ensure a lack of available mosquito breeding grounds.