What are mosquitoes and how do they live?
Mosquitoes, also known as gnats or mosquitos, belong to the family Culicidae. More than 3,500 species have been described worldwide — about 50 of them are native to Germany. Despite their small size, they are highly specialized insects that occur in almost every climate zone on Earth. Especially in the warm months they are noticeable for their buzzing, their bites and the associated itching. They have a slender body, feathery antennae and a characteristic proboscis with which they can suck blood.
Why do only female mosquitoes bite?
Contrary to popular belief, it is exclusively the female mosquitoes that bite. They need the protein from blood for the development of their eggs. Male mosquitoes, by contrast, feed on plant juices or flower nectar and usually live only a few days. Females can survive for several weeks and lay up to 300 eggs during that time. For reproduction they depend on standing water — even the smallest water collections such as saucers, watering cans or puddles are sufficient.
How do mosquito infestations develop?
The reproduction and proliferation of mosquitoes depend heavily on the surrounding environment. Humid summers and mild winters favor their spread. Especially in urban areas with many artificial water accumulations, mosquitoes can multiply rapidly. Climate change amplifies this effect — exotic species like the Asian tiger mosquito are increasingly spreading in Europe. This species is active during the day and can transmit various pathogens.
Which diseases can mosquitoes transmit?
Most native mosquito species are harmless, but some can transmit diseases. Worldwide, mosquitoes are responsible for more disease transmissions than any other animal. The most important mosquito-borne diseases include:
- Malaria
- Dengue fever
- West Nile virus
- Zika virus
- Yellow fever
- Chikungunya
In Germany, disease transmission by mosquitoes is rare, but increases with the spread of new species and warmer climate. Public health authorities are closely monitoring this development and conduct targeted mosquito surveillance.
How do you effectively protect yourself from mosquitoes?
Prevention is the best protection. With simple measures you can make yourself and your home mosquito-proof.
Clothing and mosquito nets
Wear light, long-sleeved clothing, especially at dusk. Mosquitoes are more strongly attracted to dark clothing. In bedrooms, mosquito nets over the bed are an effective barrier against nocturnal mosquito attacks. Window and door screens also prevent biting mosquitoes from entering the house.
Mosquito protection with natural ingredients
Anti-mosquito sprays should be applied to exposed areas of skin, particularly when outdoors or in mosquito-rich areas. We recommend the ARIES Anti Mück Hautspray and the ARIES Anti Mück Textilspray. Essential oils such as lavender, lemongrass or eucalyptus also repel mosquitoes, but usually only for a short time. For these we recommend the ARIES Bio Lavendelöl and the ARIES Bio Eucalyptusöl. To relieve itching we recommend the ARIES Anti-Mück Roll-on Stift. This cools and regenerates the skin using natural active ingredients and immediately relieves the unpleasant itching after insect bites.
Avoid water sources – combat mosquito larvae
Remove all accumulations of standing water in the garden or on the balcony. Cover rain barrels, empty bird baths regularly and check plant saucers for leftover irrigation water.
Why are some people bitten more frequently?
Not all people are equally attractive to mosquitoes. Studies show that body temperature, skin bacteria, exhaled CO₂ and even blood type play a role. People with blood type O appear to be bitten more often than others. Sweat and perfumes can attract mosquitoes. Some skincare products and clothing materials can also be attractive or repellent. There are, however, many myths—such as that garlic or vitamin B would help—yet scientific evidence for these claims is lacking.
Are home remedies effective against biting mosquitoes?
Home remedies can provide supportive relief but are generally less reliable than repellents. Common remedies include:
- Lemon slices with cloves
- Vinegar or lavender oil on the skin
- Scented candles with citronella
- Freshly cut onion for bites
These home remedies act for a short time or relieve symptoms after a bite. If you have sensitive skin, exercise caution—essential oils can be irritating.
Mosquitoes while traveling – what to watch for
Anyone traveling to tropical or subtropical regions should inform themselves about the risks early. In many countries, vaccination against yellow fever is recommended or required. Sleeping under an impregnated mosquito net is mandatory in affected regions. Consistent mosquito protection with clothing and repellents is also important during the day, because some vector species, such as Aedes aegypti, are active in daylight.
Dangerous or useful? The ecological role of mosquitoes
Even though they are annoying – mosquitoes have an important function in the ecosystem. Their larvae filter water in ponds and lakes and break down organic material. Adult mosquitoes are a food source for birds, bats, spiders, frogs and fish. A radical eradication would have serious consequences for the ecological balance. Therefore it is important to distinguish between reasonable measures for mosquito control and the role of mosquitoes as part of nature.
Conclusion: Living with mosquitoes – informed, protected and composed
Mosquitoes are part of summer. Even though their bites are annoying, they can be avoided with simple measures. Those who understand how mosquitoes live, what attracts them and how to protect themselves can move through the warm season without worry. Modern mosquito repellents, deliberate behavior and the removal of breeding sites in one’s own environment are effective. At the same time we should not forget that mosquitoes are part of a complex ecological network – and deserve more than their poor reputation.