Mosquito larvae snorkel
![[© Scott Camazine, used with permission, Penn State University] Mosquitoes can breed in deep water](2001-10-24-aids.gif) Q: We're told to avoid leaving shallow containers of water lying around because that's where
mosquitoes breed. Do they breed in still bodies of deeper water, like storm sewer catch basins? Is
there some depth that's critical to the breeding? --Stan C., Naples, Florida
A: Yes, mosquitoes can breed in deep, still water, like storm sewer catch basins. They normally prefer
shallow water (e.g., tin cans and old tires) because the larvae cannot survive in wild water. They like deeper
water crowded with vegetation, so no waves form. Usually, however, they avoid deep water since it can
contain enemies: fish and tadpoles.
[© Scott Camazine, used with permission, Penn State University] Mosquitoes can breed in deep water
I asked Gil Copley, director of the St. Charles County health department in St. Charles, Missouri, about a critical depth for breeding.
"The deeper the water, the more likely it is to have too much circulation and movement ..."
Scott Camazine, entomologist professor at Pennsylvania State University explains why mosquitoes aren't too particular about the still
water they breed in. "Mosquito [larvae] can tolerate stagnant pools or shallow or deep water because they do not need to get oxygen
from the water." The larvae have a snorkel breathing tube that opens on the surface of the water. Most underwater larvae have gills and
get oxygen from the water like fish do. Thus, all mosquito larvae develop very close to the water's surface and breathe air. "There is no
critical depth of water."
(Answered by April Holladay, science correspondent, February 13, 2002)
Further Surfing:
St. Charles Co. Missouri health dep't: Mosquito problem
New Orleans Mosquito Control Board: Questions & answers
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