Although there are more than 3,000 types of mosquitoes worldwide, they all share similar characteristics. Mosquitoes have the following appearance:
- Mosquitoes range in color depending on their species. Common types found in the U.S. can be gray or brown with white stripes and iridescent, hair-like scales.
- As adults, mosquitoes are only about ¼ – ½ of an inch long. They weigh less than 2.5 mg.
- Mosquitoes possess a long proboscis, which is made up of mouthparts that enable the insect to suck fluids.
- All mosquitoes have two long wings, slender bodies that rest in a “humpback” position, and characteristically long legs.
How Do You Know If It’s A Mosquito?
It is common to mistake mosquitoes for different insects. Two defining body parts can help distinguish them from other insects. First, they have wings that are covered in scales that have the appearance of fringe. Second, is a proboscis that resembles a beak. Mosquitoes are also much smaller than one imagines, so people will often mistake them for much larger bugs with similar appearance.
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What Bugs Look Like Mosquitoes?
Several insects get misidentified as mosquitoes, including gnats, midges, mayflies, or crane flies. Listed below are how to clarify the differences:
- 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.
- 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.
What Types of Mosquitoes are Found in Memphis TN Metro Area?
In the United States, there are approximately 150 species of mosquito. Enlisting assistance from a professional exterminator is one way to identify the type of mosquito you are experiencing and the best strategies for removing them. Back to Mosquito Identification