How to identify and get rid of Anopheles mosquitoes

When you think of the deadliest animals in the world, most people think about sharks, lions, cobras, or perhaps the dangerous hippos. But what if I told you that a creature the size of a pencil eraser kills more humans each year than those other animals combined?

The mosquito is a quiet killer, spreading painful and deadly diseases throughout the world. One of the deadliest mosquitoes is the Anopheles mosquito, also known as the marsh mosquito. This mosquito is a vector or transmitter of malaria.

Anopheles mosquitoes suck human blood to develop their eggs, and at the same time, they pass a single-celled organism into the bloodstream that causes malaria. Malaria is known to kill 600,000 people every year.

After the females take a blood meal, they find a source of water to lay their eggs. The larvae are aquatic organisms that can survive in a variety of environments, including irrigation ditches, seasonal pools, or manmade containers. They feed on algae and bacteria and have to touch the surface of the water to access air.

While they're a major health concern throughout the world, they are less common in some parts of the US. Additionally, malaria was eradicated from the US in the 1950s. However, understanding how to spot and manage them is crucial for keeping your family safe.

Anopheles mosquitoes may look very similar to other common mosquitoes, but their one unique feature is their unique posture; they hold their bodies at a distinct angle, almost as if they are doing a handstand. Their legs are very long for such a small fly.

The Anopheles species we have in the US is Anopheles quadrimaculatus. It has dark scales on its wings and very long palps or mouthparts that are alongside the proboscis that it uses to drink blood.

How big are Anopheles mosquitoes?

Anopheles mosquitoes are typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch long.

What other pest looks like an Anopheles mosquito?

Anopheles mosquitoes can be confused with other mosquito species, but their distinct resting angle and wing spots set them apart. Other common mosquitoes include the Aedes and Culex species, which tend to rest parallel to surfaces and lack wing spots.

Anopheles quadrimaculatus can be found in the Eastern and Midwest regions of the United States, and A. freeborni is found on the western coast. They are more prevalent in areas with abundant standing water where they can breed.

The best way to prevent mosquitoes from using you as their next meal is to wear mosquito repellant when you are outside in areas with lots of mosquitoes.

The most effective repellants include:

• DEET
• Picaridin
• Citronella essential oil
• Lemongrass essential oil

DEET-based products offer the longest protection, with Picaridin coming in a close second. While essential oils can repel mosquitoes, their effects are only effective for minutes, not hours.

Another thing to consider is potential breeding sites around your property. Mosquitoes will use any standing water for potential egg-laying. Remove any containers that can fill up with rainwater, properly maintain swimming pools, and treat natural pools of water.

Treatments for standing water include:

• Mosquito eating fish
• Larvacidal Bt products
• Oil films
• Regular cleaning and maintenance

One of the best ways to prevent mosquitoes from coming into your home is by spraying and maintaining a bug barrier. With the Pestie Smart Pest Plan, you’ll get a pro-grade, DIY solution delivered right to your door so you can enjoy a pest-free home year-round.