Culiseta morsitans is a species of mosquito in the family Culicidae.
Description
Culiseta morsitans is considered univoltine, producing one generation per year. However, females are long-lived and can appear in light trap collections well into the summer months. Eggs are known to be able to overwinter. Larvae typically hatch in mid to late May and develop in semi-permanent or permanent marshes. Adults emerge later in the summer.
Distribution
Culiseta morsitans is common in New England and upper New York State. Its distribution spans south-central Canada, including provinces such as Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia. The species thrives in colder climates and is adapted to northern environments.
Medical importance Adult females are blood feeders that primarily seek avian hosts for their blood meals. There have been records that Culiseta morsitans can act as a vector of Eastern equine encephalitis virus.
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