How to identify the dengue mosquito |  7 tips

How to identify the dengue mosquito | 7 tips


To identify the dengue mosquito it is worth observing what the body of the vector that transmits the diseases looks like and understanding what the most common habits of the insect are.

The dengue mosquito (Aedes aegizi) is an invasive species in Brazil, but the insect has adapted so well to the tropical climate that there is no region of the country where it cannot be observed, especially in the warmer months. This is why it is so important to know how to identify the dengue mosquito.



The vector represents a serious problem for public health, since it transmits other diseases, such as Zika, chikungunya and urban yellow fever, in addition to dengue. Every year in Brazil hundreds of thousands of people fall ill from the virus transmitted by the dengue mosquito.

To identify this species, various factors can be observed, from the physical characteristics of the insect to its most common habits and behaviors. All of this helps when it comes to distinguishing a mosquito from a Aedes aegizi. Below, check out 7 tips on how to identify dengue mosquito:

1. Dengue mosquito strips

This is, most likely, the easiest way to identify the dengue mosquito. This insect has black and white stripes on its body and legs – they are not spots or spots. He also has a white harp-shaped mark on the back of his chest.




To know how to identify the dengue mosquito, it's worth checking the stripes on its body (Image: CDC/Harry D. Pratt)

2. Time of day

Although exceptions exist, dengue mosquitoes have diurnal habits and are most active at the beginning of the day and at dusk. So, depending on the time of day, you can get an idea of ​​what species you saw. However, the mosquito Aedes aegizi It can appear at night, when someone reaches into its hiding place, such as the corners between furniture and walls.

3. Did you hear a buzz?

If you hear a ringing in your ears at night, know that you are probably dealing with a mosquito of the same type. Culexas the Culex quinquefasciatus. This is because the mosquito that transmits dengue is known to be rather silent and “discreet”. not even its sting leaves any marks. He is also not very active before bedtime.

4. Low flight

Another way to identify the dengue mosquito is the height of its flight, compared to other mosquito and mosquito species. The flight altitude is lower and closer to the ground. In fact, the favorite places for bites are the ankles and legs.

5. Place of sighting

When thinking about insects, proximity to nature, forests and rivers is usually a risk factor. However, the dengue mosquito is classified as an urban mosquito, as it is more common near homes and buildings. So, you need to pay special attention within the city.

6. Natural water without organic matter

As part of the life cycle, the female dengue mosquito searches for water reservoirs to lay her eggs, which include plant pots, water tanks, empty cans and bottles, clogged gutters, and even tires. When possible, will opt for clean water, without organic matter.



Dengue larvae are more common in places with clean water, but there are exceptions (Image: Lauren Bishop/CDC)

If the larvae were seen in these conditions, there is a good chance that it is a breeding ground for dengue fever, but there are exceptions. Some larvae can even be found in murky water.

7. Cold or hot season?

Finally, it is worth relating the dengue mosquito to the season. These insects They are most commonly seen during warmer months with lots of rain, such as summer, than in winter. So much so that, in Brazil, the risk of dengue epidemics increases between October of one year and May of the following year.

You have now learned to identify the dengue mosquito, differentiating this species from other insects that may have flown near you or been found in your home.

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Source: Terra

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