Stagnant Water Mosquitoes

Importance


Culex Tarsalis


This is the most important mosquito of arboviruses in western North America. Responsible for maintenance, amplification and epidemic transmission of Western Equine, and St Louis viruses in irrigated and riparian habitats. It is also capable of transmitting: Venezuelan Equine, Japanese Encephalitis, Murray Valley, West Nile and many others.
Culex Tarsalis
Larval habitat is usually among surface water pools that are frequently surrounded by grasses and annual vegetation and agricultural tail water. Larval development is 7 days to 4 weeks depending on temperature and food supply. Females feed mostly on birds shortly after sunset. Flight range is up to 17 miles.

Culex Quinquefasciatus


The southern house mosquito is found throughout the southern half of the United States. Its Latin name refers to five lines that can be seen on the length of the body. This mosquito prefers to lay eggs in small pools of water, and can utilize water that is polluted with organic material.
Culex Quinquefasciatus
This mosquito enters houses readily, hence its common name. It can be an annoying pest at night, not only because of its bite but also because of its high-pitched buzz. The southern house mosquito can transmit nematodes which cause dog heartworm and viruses causing encephalitis.

Typical Breeding Sites


Tin cans, old tires, decorative ponds, bird baths, horse troughs, overgrown ditches, unmaintained swimming pools, open septic tanks, sewage and industrial waste ponds.

Breeding Site Selection


Eggs are laid in cluster directly on the surface of standing water. Continuous reproduction cycles as long as water stands and conditions remain favorable.

Adult Habits


Seldom seen in daytime, rests in shrubbery and other cool sheltered places. Active and biting during nighttime hours, indoors and out. Rests in open weeds and grass during daytime, but will rise up and bite if disturbed.

Contact Us

  1. Vector Control Office & Lab

    Physical Address
    3220 W Gibson Lane
    Suite 500
    Phoenix, AZ 85009

    Phone 602-506-0700




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