Latin name: Culicidae (family – includes multiple pest species)
Mosquitoes are widespread throughout Australia and are a significant nuisance and health pest in residential, commercial, and landscaped environments. Common pest species include the common banded mosquito (Culex annulirostris), saltmarsh mosquito (Aedes vigilax), and container-breeding mosquitoes such as Aedes notoscriptus.
Mosquitoes are blood-feeding insects, with only females biting humans and animals. They require blood meals to produce eggs, while both males and females feed on plant sugars for energy.
Mosquito activity increases during warmer months. In Western Australia, rainfall, irrigation, standing water, and high humidity during spring and summer create ideal breeding conditions, allowing mosquito populations to increase rapidly.
Lifecycle
The mosquito lifecycle consists of egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages and can be completed in as little as 7–14 days under favourable conditions.
- Eggs are laid on or near standing water, depending on species
- Larvae hatch and live in water, feeding on organic matter and microorganisms
- Larvae develop into pupae, which are also aquatic and non-feeding
- Adult mosquitoes emerge from the water surface and begin feeding and breeding
Some species can produce multiple generations in a single season, leading to sudden population explosions after rainfall or irrigation events.
Identification
- Slender body with long legs
- Size typically 3–6 mm long
- Colour varies by species, commonly grey, brown, or black with pale markings
- Long proboscis used for feeding
- Wings covered with fine scales
- Distinct high-pitched buzzing sound when flying
Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, though some species readily bite during the day.
Damage
Mosquitoes are a major public health concern and cause both direct and indirect impacts.
- Painful, itchy bites that can become inflamed or infected
- Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
- Transmission of diseases such as Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, Murray Valley encephalitis, and dengue (in northern Australia)
- Reduced outdoor amenity in residential, hospitality, and public spaces
- Stress and discomfort for people and animals
High mosquito activity can severely limit the use of outdoor areas if not properly managed.
