Behaviour of Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes exhibit varied behavioural trends in their lifetime. The behaviour varies in each species and is a manifestation of the innate and adaptive nature of the species. Each behavioural trait contributes greatly to the survival and establishment of the population in its habitat. Prodigality in production and successful survival of mosquitoes that can support pathogens or parasites result in the transmission of disease in a vulnerable population. The study of mosquito behaviour particularly the vectors contributes to the knowledge on effective control of vector population and to prevent disease transmission. Mosquito behaviour, beginning from the immature stages to adult emergence, swarming, mating, feeding, resting and oviposition, has been intensively studied in various disease vectors in different endemic areas of the world. In the present chapter, some of the interesting behaviours of mosquitoes are discussed. An understanding of these will be helpful from an academic point of view and provide insight into the fundamentals of vector control.