Myths vs Facts; Mosquito Edition
Mosquitoes…the tiny vampires of the insect world. There’s so much we think we know and so much we don’t know about these pesky bloodsuckers, from their feeding habits to their role in spreading diseases. But fear not friend, we're here to debunk common myths about mosquitoes and reveal the juicy facts lurking beneath the surface.
Let’s do this!
Myth: All Mosquitoes Bite Humans.
Fact: While many species of mosquitoes sink their stingers (called proboscis) on humans, not all mosquitoes have a taste for our blood. In fact, only female mosquitoes bite humans, as they require the protein found in blood to develop their eggs. Male mosquitoes, on the other hand, feed on nectar and other plant juices.
Myth: Mosquitoes Prefer to Bite People with Certain Blood Types
Fact: It's a common belief that mosquitoes have a preference for certain individuals based on factors like blood type or body odour. However, research suggests that mosquitoes are attracted to a combination of factors, including body heat, carbon dioxide emissions, and even genetics. While some people may be more appealing to mosquitoes than others, it's not solely determined by blood type or scent.
Myth: Eating Bananas Attracts Mosquitoes.
Fact: This myth is bananas, b-a-n-a-n-a-s. There's no scientific evidence to support it. While it's true that mosquitoes are attracted to certain scents, eg sweaty bodies, bananas aren't among their preferred fragrances. So go ahead and enjoy your banana smoothie without worrying about attracting a swarm of mosquitoes.
Myth: Mosquitoes Die After Biting. (if only)
Fact: Contrary to popular belief, mosquitoes don't die after feasting on your blood. In fact, they can continue to bite multiple times throughout their lifespan, which can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the species.
Conclusion:
Separating myths from facts can be as tricky as dodging a mosquito in the dark…we’ve all been there. While these tiny insects may continue to mystify us with their buzzing antics, arming ourselves with knowledge is the best defence against their bite.
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Mosquito Control. https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/index.html
American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA). (2022). Frequently Asked Questions. https://www.mosquito.org/page/faq
National Pesticide Information Center. (2022). Mosquito Control. http://npic.orst.edu/pest/mosquito/index.html