How many kinds of mosquitoes are there?
There are more than 3,000 mosquito species, with about 180 found in North America. The most common mosquitos in the U.S. are those of the Aedes, Culex and Anopheles genera. Each has its own unique characteristics, and each has the potential to transmit various diseases.
Diseases Transmitted by Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes aren't just a nuisance. They can transmit deadly diseases that put customers and employees at risk. Diseases that mosquitoes can carry globally include:
- Chikungunya
- Dengue Fever
- Malaria
- West Nile Virus
- Western/Eastern Equine Encephalitis
- Yellow Fever
- Zika
Mosquitos Affecting Commercial Operations
Culex Mosquitoes
- Typically bite at night both indoors and outdoors; they prefer avian hosts, but will bite humans
- Transmit diseases including: West Nile Virus, Western/Eastern Equine Encephalitis
- Lay eggs in rafts on the water surface of polluted freshwater sites and artificial containers
- Distribution: All parts of the U.S.
Anopheles Mosquitoes
- Bite indoors and outdoors between dusk and dawn and prefer human and mammal hosts
- Lay eggs with floats on the surface of natural, vegetated water bodies (e.g., ponds, marshes, swamps)
- Distribution: Eastern and Western U.S.
Aedes Mosquitoes
- Unlike the "typical" mosquito of the U.S., they are active day biters and humans are their preferred hosts
- Transmit diseases including: Zika, Chikungunya, Yellow Fever, Dengue Fever
- Lay eggs singly on or near the surface of temporary water sources (e.g., used tires, flower pots, pools, roof tanks)
- Distribution: Across the East Coast, Midwest, Pacific Northwest, and Southern U.S.
More Pest Resources
