Do mosquito larvae prefer still or moving water?

Do mosquito larvae prefer still or moving water?

• A. Moving
• B. Still
• C. Both
• D. Neither

Answer: (B)

Mosquito larvae thrive in water that is stationary or very slowly moving. The stability of still water lets the larvae linger near the surface to breathe and feed effectively on microorganisms and detritus in the water. In moving water, currents can push and wash larvae away, disrupt feeding, and make it harder for eggs and young larvae to survive. While some species can tolerate a bit of flow, the common environment for mosquito larvae is still water such as ponds, containers, and marshy edges. That’s why still water is the best answer.

Mosquito larvae thrive in water that is stationary or very slowly moving. The stability of still water lets the larvae linger near the surface to breathe and feed effectively on microorganisms and detritus in the water. In moving water, currents can push and wash larvae away, disrupt feeding, and make it harder for eggs and young larvae to survive. While some species can tolerate a bit of flow, the common environment for mosquito larvae is still water such as ponds, containers, and marshy edges. That’s why still water is the best answer.