What purposes do mosquitoes serve?

Mosquitoes are an important link in the food chain. Many animals depend on them as a source of food.


During their aquatic stage, mosquito larvae provide food for the other aquatic insects such as, dragonfly nymphs and beetles, fish, frogs and other water-dwelling animals. As adults, mosquitoes are eaten by:

  • Bats
  • Birds
  • Insects
  • Lizards
  • Spiders


Mosquitoes do not feed on blood alone. The blood meal that is taken, is used by the female to produce eggs. Both males and females need liquid nourishment for food. Plants provide the source of liquid nourishment. Mosquitoes feed on plant nectar, honeydew, fruit juices and liquids oozing from injured plants. Because of this need for nourishment, mosquitoes are important pollinators of wildflowers during this feeding process.

Show All Answers

1. What attracts female mosquitoes to humans?
2. What purposes do mosquitoes serve?
3. Why can't mosquito control programs spray during the day?
4. When can I expect to see a spray truck?
5. Is the spray harmful to people or pets?
6. Do mosquitoes carry AIDS?
7. What criteria are used when deciding when and where to spray?
8. Who oversees pesticide applications?
9. What if I am allergic to DEET?