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What Do Mosquitoes Look Like?
There are more than 3,000 types of mosquitoes worldwide, and most of them look exactly alike. Mosquitoes have the following characteristics:
- Adult mosquitoes are only about ¼ – ½ of an inch long. They weigh less than 2.5 mg.
- Mosquitoes range in color depending on their species. Most mosquitoes are gray or brown in color with white stripes and iridescent, hair-like scales.
- All mosquitoes have two long wings, slender bodies that rest in a “humpback” position, and characteristically long legs.
- Mosquitoes are known for their long proboscis, which is made up of mouthparts that enable the insect to suck fluids.
What is the Anatomy of a Mosquito?
Most people have confused mosquitoes for other insects and vice versa. However, they have two unique body parts that distinguish them from other bugs: scale-covered wings that give them a fringe-like appearance, and their beak-like proboscis that enables them to suck blood. Mosquitoes are oftentimes smaller than you think, which is why people often confuse much larger bugs for these blood-suckers. To better identify a mosquito, look at the behaviors they exhibit.
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3 Insects That Look Like Mosquitoes
Most people have confused other bugs or insects for mosquitoes. The most common insects mistaken for mosquitoes are:
- Crane flies: Also referred to as mosquito hawks, these insects look like giant mosquitoes at nearly double the size of mosquitoes. They are harmless and will not draw blood.
- Midges/gnats: Although somewhat related to mosquitoes, midges rarely bite and do not transmit disease. They appear in large swarms and lack a proboscis.
- Mayflies: The mayfly has larger, upward slanting wings and does not possess the proboscis. Mayflies do not bite or sting.
Mosquitoes in Lubbock TX
There are about 150 species of mosquitoes found nationwide. There are many species found in Texas, but the Aedes aegypti, Culex, and Aedes albopictus are the most dangerous ones as they are known to spread diseases. To help identify what type of mosquito you are dealing with, it’s best to enlist the help of a professional mosquito exterminator.