Which preferred hosts do Culex p. quinquefasciatus and Cx. tarsalis mosquitoes primarily feed on?

Which preferred hosts do Culex p. quinquefasciatus and Cx. tarsalis mosquitoes primarily feed on?

• A. Humans
• B. Birds
• C. Mammals only
• D. Both birds and humans

Answer: (B)

Culex p. quinquefasciatus and Cx. tarsalis mosquitoes primarily feed on birds, which are their preferred hosts. This preference is significant because these mosquito species play a crucial role in the transmission of various avian viruses. Birds serve as amplifying hosts for viruses like West Nile virus, facilitating the spread of these pathogens within the ecosystem. While mosquitoes may also feed on other animals, including humans, their primary nutrient source and breeding conditions are often closely linked to bird populations. This is why the role of birds as primary hosts is emphasized in the study of these mosquito species and their associated public health risks. Understanding their feeding patterns helps in assessing and managing the risks of mosquito-borne diseases effectively.

Culex p. quinquefasciatus and Cx. tarsalis mosquitoes primarily feed on birds, which are their preferred hosts. This preference is significant because these mosquito species play a crucial role in the transmission of various avian viruses. Birds serve as amplifying hosts for viruses like West Nile virus, facilitating the spread of these pathogens within the ecosystem.

While mosquitoes may also feed on other animals, including humans, their primary nutrient source and breeding conditions are often closely linked to bird populations. This is why the role of birds as primary hosts is emphasized in the study of these mosquito species and their associated public health risks. Understanding their feeding patterns helps in assessing and managing the risks of mosquito-borne diseases effectively.