Coquillettidia perturbans lay their eggs to form an egg raft in permanent freshwater near emergent aquatic plants. The larvae and pupae attach to the roots of emergent vegetation, especially cattails for respiration through a sharp modified air siphon. Since they breathe through vegetation, C. perturbans can avoid the water surface where they could encounter predators and some larvicides. C. perturbans complete four aquatic larval instars. Pupal development can range from a few hours to a few weeks depending on temperature.
(left) Coquillettidia breeding habitat, Photo Credit: Lee Green, IDOH (right) Coquillettidia larva modified air siphon, Photo credit: CDC
Female Coquillettidia perturbans are persistent and painful biters that can be a great nuisance to humans and animals. They are most active during the early evening hours but can also seek blood meals during the day in shady areas where adult mosquitoes are resting.
