Mosquitoes are a dreadful nuisance to mankind. Not only do they bite people, they are vectors for some terrible diseases, such as malaria and yellow fever.
As such, mosquito control has become an important aspect of disease prevention; especially where mosquito-borne illnesses are endemic.
Mosquitoes are not without natural controls, which sometimes can be exploited by man to help reduce mosquito populations. Some of the natural enemies of mosquitoes are discussed below.
Western Mosquitofish
The western mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis, is a small fish whose native range mostly exists in the south-central United States.
The eastern extent of its natural range is the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River system of the states of Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, with the western extent being the Rio Grande River all the way into New Mexico.
All of the major rivers which are tributaries of the Mississippi River are in within this fish’s natural range.
Western mosquitofish feed primarily on zooplankton and invertebrate prey (including mosquito larvae) at the top of the water column. The fish is well known for its high feeding capacity, which can reach 42–167% of its body weight per day.
Because of their reputation as mosquito-control agents, western mosquitofish have been introduced in temperate and tropical areas throughout around the world. In the U.S. during the early 1900s, mosquitofish were introduced to Hawaii from Texas to test their effectiveness in preying on mosquito larvae and their ability to function as an effective mosquito predator.
In the following decades, mosquitofish were widely introduced by public health such organizations, largely because they were thought to be an effective and inexpensive means of combating malaria.
In more recent years, many state and local health departments apparently view the use of mosquitofish to control mosquito larvae as a more attractive alternative to using pesticides.
Although widely introduced as mosquito control agents, more recent scientific reviews have not supported views that mosquitofish are effective in reducing mosquito populations or mosquito-borne diseases.
In some habitats, introduced mosquitofish reportedly displaced native fish species regarded as better or more efficient at controlling mosquitos. They also were destructive to predatory invertebrate populations that fed upon mosquito larvae.
Introduced mosquitofish have been particularly destructive in the American West where they have contributed to the elimination or decline of populations of federally endangered and threatened species.
For instance, mosquitofish have preyed on populations of tadpoles of certain frogs and newts, thus reducing the adult populations of these species.
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a naturally occurring bacterium common in soils throughout the world. Several strains of this microbe can infect and kill insects.
Because of this property, Bt has been developed for insect control, and is the only “microbial insecticide” in widespread use today. The insecticidal activity of Bt was first discovered in 1911, and by the 1950s it was commercially available for use in pest-control.
Bt acts by producing proteins (delta-endotoxins) that react with the cells of the gut lining of susceptible insects. The proteins paralyze the digestive system, and the infected insect stops feeding—eventually dying of starvation. Even dead bacteria containing the proteins are effective insecticides.
The israelensis strain of the Bt microbe is used to control certain types of fly larvae, to include mosquitoes, black flies, and fungus gnats. To control mosquito larvae, formulations containing the israelensis strain are placed into the standing water where mosquitos breed.
For these applications, Bt usually is applied in granules or solid, slow-release rings or briquettes to increase persistence. Rates of application are determined by the size of the water body.
One of the advantages of BT is that it does not have a broad spectrum of activity, so the microbes do not kill beneficial insects, such as insect predators or pollinators.
Corethrella appendiculata is a small biting midge that targets frogs as an adult. The larval stage is an aquatic form that is predatory and which targets mosquito larvae for food.
The midge larvae can be found in standing water in containers, tree holes; i.e., the same habitats where mosquito larvae can be found. The midge larvae are small, but they are voracious feeders.
Interest in C. appendiculata has grown in recent years due to the expanding invasion of the Asian tiger mosquito in the U.S. This invader is native to Southeast Asia and reached U.S. shores in the mid-1980s via a Texas port.
The Asian tiger mosquito is an epidemiologically important vector for the transmission of many pathogens, including the viruses that cause yellow fever, dengue fever, and Chikungunya fever. It also is a vector for several filarial nematode parasites.
Researchers have found that C. appendiculata larvae will choose to attack and eat tiger mosquito larvae over native mosquito larvae.
Size differences between the larvae of the mosquito species are a factor, with the tiger mosquito larvae being smaller than other mosquito larvae, and therefore easier to attack.
The native mosquito larvae also adopt less risky behaviors than the invasive mosquito larvae, making them less susceptible to being eaten.
dragonflies prey on both mosquitoes and their larvae
Dragonflies are fierce hunters of insects, and mosquitoes are definitely on the menu. Dragonflies spend most of their lives living under water as larvae (nymphs)—Up to five years.
They usually live just a few months as adult flies. As nymphs they hunt small aquatic insects and larvae, especially mosquito larvae. Some dragonfly nymphs will even eat tadpoles and guppies.
The nymphs snag their prey with powerful jaws using the same tenacity and determination that adult flies use.
Adult dragonflies are also voracious eaters. They eat other flying insects, in particular smaller flies and mosquitoes. One Harvard study observed a dragonfly that ate 30 house flies in rapid succession, and would have continued eating if more prey was available.
The compound eyes of the dragonfly are even more developed than the compound eyes of the house fly, and are put to good use during hunts for prey. The dragonfly does not chase its prey through the air.
Rather, it sees them with its tremendous visual acuity and then calculates an intercept path in order to meet them at a specific point. Once they intercept their prey, they grab the prey with their front legs, which curve around the prey like a cage, preventing escape. They then use powerful jaws to crush their prey.
The four wings of the dragonfly operate independently, which allows it to hover and fly with great maneuverability. The intricate compound eyes and great flying ability help make the dragonfly a fearsome insect predator. Dragonflies are beneficial insects that man should respect.
As much as mosquitoes bite, they are also a part of the natural food chain. They are eaten by many other organisms, to include other insects, birds, reptiles, fish, and bats.
Bats are sometimes named as effective measures to get rid of mosquitoes in yards but this is a myth. Bats eat mostly larger insects and mosquitoes are only a few percent of their diet as research has shown.
The same goes for birds. Certain birds such as Purple Martins are claimed to feed on mosquitoes thus helping reduce their amount. Yet these birds eat only very few mosquitoes so their presence does not make much of a difference. What’s more is that Purple Martins also feed on the natural enemy of skeeters, dragonflies.
The toads and lizards living in your garden, the frogs in nearby ponds, and the birds inhabiting your neighborhood include mosquitoes in their diets, which helps to keep the mosquito population lower than it would be otherwise. Even if their contribution is small, they are part of the ecosystem.
*Nico, L., Fuller, P., Jacobs, G., Cannister, M., Larson, J,. Fusaro, A…Neilson, M. (2013, August 2). Gambusia affinis (Baird and Girard, 1853). Retrieved from UCGS.
Science Daily. (2009, June 8). Midge Keeps Invasive Mosquito In Check, Aiding Native Mosquitoes. Retrieved from ScienceDaily.
Mosquitoes can really take the fun out of spending time in the yard. Not only do they ruin summer days and evenings leaving everyone annoyed and itchy, in recent years they have become a real cause for health concerns due to mosquito-borne illness.
Depending on your situation you may not be able to get rid of the flying bugs completely but there’s a lot you can do to minimize the influx.
Here’s an overview of how to control mosquitoes in your home’s outdoor area. We have separated old wives tales from science-backed remedies, fiction from fact. The result, 16 tips that actually work. Based on research, pest experts, and user experiences.
Corrective Actions
Make your yard less attractive to the buzzing bugs with these measures. Basically what you do is employ the proven effective scorched earth policy. Take away everything that mosquitoes attracts and facilitates their survival.
Get rid of (potential) water containers
standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes
In the war against the bugs standing water is the battlefront. Tackle the problem at the source. Prevent larvae from growing into adult skeeters. This is one of the most effective ways to minimize their presence.
Mosquitoes lay eggs on the surface of standing water. Inspect your yard for standing (rain) water. Even the barest amount (i.e. a quarter of an inch of water) is enough for the pests to spawn.
Empty or remove all the items that can contain water for at least a few days. By eliminating all these water sources you are taking away ideal breeding grounds for the bugs.
Items and spots that contain water include,
bird baths, ornamental fountains, water gardens, rain barrels without screened covers, plant pots, animal drinking containers, the crevices of plastic toys, garbage cans, old tires, buckets, tree stumps, puddles, shallow ponds, clogged gutters, obstructed down spouts, flat roofs, and yard debris.
Remove or turn containers upside down since the airborne pests leave their eggs in currently dry containers. When filled with rain water the eggs will hatch .
Turn water barrels upside down during the winter. During mosquito season (till October) cover the barrel with a lid. Keep lid sealed with connectors. Use a mosquito-proof screen (very fine mesh) to seal and cover the rain barrel.
Ensure cistern screens are intact and covers fit well. Avoid seepage around animal watering troughs, cesspools, cisterns and septic tanks.
Refresh the water in bird baths at least once a week.
Improve swampy soil
Sun Tzu said it already, “the low ground, on the other hand, is often wet and full of mosquitoes”.
Aedes mosquitoes prefer to lay eggs in low lying areas that flood from time to time. Other causes of moist soil can be poor drainage, yard layout and soil composition.
Where possible, drain or fill non/flowing ditches, soil depressions and other soggy parts of the yard. Tree stumps can be filled with sealant or mortar to prevent gathering of water.
The more you get rid of spots that tend to gather water on wet days, the less swarming enemies you will encounter later on.
Ditches containing stagnant water for one week or longer can produce large numbers of mosquitoes. Report such conditions to a Mosquito Control or Public Health Office. (American Mosquito Control Association)
Treat water in ponds
Making everything in the yard as dry as possible would be ideal to get rid of the pest but you may want to keep your nice Koi pond.
Since mosquitoes prefer standing, non-flowing water aeration helps prevent egg-laying and hatching. Use an aeration pump, a fountain, water bubbler, or a DIY pond aerator to improve water circulation and keep it moving.
Mosquito larvae have a breathing tube they use like a snorkel with which they breath at the surface of the water. Moving water surfaces prevent breathing, drowning the larvae.
Thin out pond lilies and remove leaves and keep the water level up.
If limiting the amount of water pools is not possible or undesirable you can use a biorational larvicide. These are commonly sold as mosquito pucks or dunks.
The most popular larvicides for home use contain either the active ingredient,
Methoprene that inhibits the development of mosquito larvae into adults.
or
the Bti bacterium (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) that produces a toxin that attacks the digestive tract thus killing the larvae. (it does not affect eggs or pupae)
Both larvicides are harmless to waterfowl, fish, pets, and humans provided they are used according directions on the label.
Commercially available brand names containing methoprene are Altocide and PreStrike. Popular brands containing Bti are Mosquito Bits, Vectobac-G and Mosquito Dunks.
These can be used on all standing water containers including roof gutters, flower pots, old tires, ponds and so on.
The difference between the two forms, granular and solid dunks
Dunks break down slowly when wet releasing the insecticide over an extended period.
Granular products release the Bti toxin more quickly than the dunks and are commonly used to treat smaller containers such as tree holes, flower pots etc.
According to popular belief used coffee grounds are effective at killing mosquito larvae. Coffee grounds are often claimed to force the eggs to the surface, thus depriving them of oxygen with a lethal result.
Research shows that the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Coffee grounds, in some cases show to act as a larvicide while in other cases indirectly provide food for the larvae. Therefore UCG are probably best for small bodies of water.
A study by the University of Hawaii demonstrated that Vectobac-G, Altocid, Mosquito Bits and Mosquito Dunks are effective in killing mosquito larvae in flower vases. A dishwashing liquid was too, but affected leaf and flower quality.
Treat water in ornamental pools
If water movement alone does not suffice you can also stock the Western Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis).
Be cautious becauseMosquitofish, also called top feeding predacious minnows, these fish have shown to kill or injure other small fish and to be a threat to frog populations. Which is why they are generally not recommended for so called ‘green pools’.
Therefore they are probably best for stagnant pools of water and large water containers such as large animal troughs, rain barrels and ornamental pools.
The mosquito larvae eating fish are claimed to be able to eat up to 300 larvae per day.
You can get free mosquito fish at the Mosquito and Vector Control District. Request the fish online at FightTheBite.net.
Another option are guppies which are known to eat mosquito larvae. In Thailand guppies are present on large scale in urban areas where they play an important role in reducing the mosquito populations.
The annual killifish (Nothobranchius guentheri) is another type of fish known to help limit the amount of larvae in ponds and other water bodies. This study reports about the effictiveness of the from Tanzania originating fish.
Once introduced either as embryos or juveniles in ponds, the annual killifish can effectively reduce the larval population because of its aggressive predatory activity.
In certain bodies of water oil can be an effective solution too. Being lighter than water, for instance olive oil, forms a thin film on the water preventing the larvae from breathing suffocating them.
Keep swimming pools clean
Contrary to popular belief, chlorine does not kill mosquito larvae. Even the CDC stresses the importance of keeping swimming pools chlorinated.
Bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is effective yet highly toxic to the environment thus, in many cases, undesirable.
Run a filter and use a pool cover to minimize the mosquito menace. Mosquitoes do not lay eggs in disinfected and filtered swimming pools.
Treat your yard with a mosquito insecticide
Mosquitoes lay low in dense vegetation such as trees and shrubs but also in weeds. Get rid of of tall weeds and overgrowth to minimize their resting spots during the day.
Spraying foliage such as shrubs, the lower limbs of shade trees, and other plants with an insecticide can also help. Spray both the top and especially the underside of the leaves.
Trimming back low foliage is another common practice that helps make your yard mosquito free.
Make sure to treat all shaded areas such as under decks, along foundations overhangs of the house, the shed and other structures.
If your yard isn’t too big, using a pump sprayer (hose end sprayer) will suffice. For large yards a mist blower will be handy. Make sure to re-apply every month during the mosquito season.
Two popular insecticides for this purpose are Demand Cs and Talstar Pro. These belong to the so called pyrethroid insecticides.
These are synthetic chemical insecticides that act in a similar manner to from chrysanthemum flower derived pyrethrins.
Pyrethroids are toxic to fish but “do not pose unreasonable risks to human life, wildlife or the environment”. Source. EPA.
An alternative are garlic-based liquid sprays such as Mosquito Barrier 2000 liquid spray which is essentially highly concentrated garlic juice derived from extra potent cloves.
Replace outdoor lights with bug lights
Lights attract small bugs which attract bigger bugs looking for a tasty meal. By replacing existing outdoor light for opaqueyellow bug lights you may reduce the influx of the flying pests in your yard.
Because of different light wavelengths, bug lights are less visible to insects thus causing less bugs swarming around.
The, often much ballyhooed, claim is that the yellow opaque coating on bug lights ensures emitting light invisible to insects. If they can’t see a light source, they can’t swarm there.
However, not all insects are the same, different bugs see slightly different wavelengths and light always consists of several wavelengths. Despite these shortcomings bug lights can be useful additions to a multi-modal mosquito management program.
They will not be invisible to all bugs but have proven to drastically reduce swarms of bugs.
Irrigate your lawn carefully
Avoid over-watering lawns and gardens to prevent standing water and other moist conditions on the premises. The less abundant water in puddles and the top soil layers the less chance for mosquitoes on successful breeding.
Traps and insecticide systems
Misting systems
Harsh times ask for harsh measures. Chemical warfare is the way to go if you want that barbecue to be absolutely skeeter-free. Also called ‘bug bombs’,foggers create a cloud of death that kills mosquitoes on contact and lasts for hours.
For this reason misters or foggers are commonly used during pool parties, backyard picnics, and other events.
Misting systems dispense an odorless, ultra-fine insecticide mist lethal to the nefarious insects. Misting is most efficient during peak periods of mosquito flight, often around dusk. Similar to sprinklers they can be set up on a timing system.
We didn’t know what to expect at first but misters really work. We can always tell when the misting tank needs to be refilled because the mosquitoes show up.
Misting systems are generally used with botanical pyrethrum or permethrin which are low risk, low toxicity substances that are safe on animals and humans.
These are the same compounds present in flea and tick products and dog and cat shampoos and drips.
Consumer market insecticides containing permethrin include Ortho Home Defense Max, Ortho Bug B Gon, Raid Yard Guard, and Cutter Bug Free Backyard.
Examples of consumer products containing pyrethrins include: Quik-Kill Home Garden & Pest Spray, Pyrethrum Total Release Fogger and Doktor Doom fogger.
Fogging machines are also used with repellents. More expensive models are able to cover up to 4000 square feet lasting up to 6 hours.
Large, automated misting systems commonly come in a tankless or drum-based variant but have more disadvantages than portable, lightweight foggers such as the popular Burgess 1443 40-Ounce Outdoor Propane Insect Fogger.
Portable mosquito traps
Citronella candles and coils mask the CO2 we breathe out to keep them away. Mosquito traps do the exact opposite, they emit a stream CO2 to lure mosquitoes in.
The Patriot Mosquito Magnet trap for instance converts propane into a CO2 stream, water vapor and heat to attract the little buggers. You can also add an additional attractant (i.e. Octenol3) that mimics the scent of human skin to lure in more mosquitoes.
Once captured in the trapping bag they eventually dry out and die.
These devices can be effective solutions to your skeeter problem but must be placed appropriately (for instance out of windy spots) and require regular propane and attractant refill which may make running them costly.
Repellents
Repelling lanterns
A more affordable weapon in the battle of the bugs is a portable, cordless butane powered lantern. These devices emit repellent into the air thus keeping mosquitoes, no-see-ums, and black flies away.
A butane cartridge heats a metal grill which is attached to the repellent saturated mat. Because of the heat the repellent, in this lantern allethrin, vaporizes into the surrounding air.
This particular lantern uses allethrin which is a synthetic duplicate of a component of pyrethrum (the botanical insecticide primarily produced in the chrysanthemum plant family). Allethrin is not toxic to mammals.
Outdoor fans
Using fans is a proven method to ward off skeeters both indoor as outdoor. The common claim that skeeters dislike a breeze and thus stay away is not entirely true though.
Although they may have a harder time circling around you and landing on you there’s something else what makes fans efficient.
The air circulation disperses and dilutes the carbon dioxide you exhale. Other signals the bugs use to find you are sweat, lactic acid and body heat which a fan helps reduce. Researchers conducting a study on the benefits of fans as mosquito repellents concluded:
“We recommend that fan-generated wind should be pursued as a practical means of protecting humans or pets from mosquitoes in the backyard setting,”
The fan on the photo is an outdoor misting fan. You could use a normal indoor fan too when, for instance, sitting on the porch.
Conceal candles
Everybody knows citronella candles which are repellents (emit a scent the bugs don’t like and want to avoid). Conceal candles work differently, they are inhibitors.
This means that they interfere with the smelling ability of mosquitoes in the proximity. Once they have smelled these candles burning they are disoriented and, supposedly, aren’t able to find you or your family members anymore.
These candles contain a botanical substance called Linalool or ‘Conceal Inhibitor Molecule’.
Controversial systems
Bug zappers
Opinions on effectiveness and environmental influence of these devices differs. The reason for the popularity of these devices may be the satisfying zapping sound they make when bugs hit the electrified grid. This gives users the impression the zapper effectively reduces the local mosquito population.
With their fluorescent lights they are able to attract and kill thousands of insects in relatively short period of time. These devices however are generally not recommended for mosquito reduction.
According to the American Mosquito Control Association, bug zappers, also called black light insect electrocution devices do not reduce the amount of mosquitoes in your yard.
What’s more is that these devices, their use going back to the 1930’s, kill billions of beneficial, non-pest insects yearly in the U.S alone.
Since these insects such as beetles and moths are natural enemies of other insect pests you may be actually increasing problems in your yard by using a zapper. On top of that you are reducing the food supply of many songbirds.
According to one study conducted in residential backyards, of the insects killed by these devices only 0.13% were female mosquitoes.
The only two controlled studies conducted to date by independent investigators at the University of Notre Dame showed that mosquitoes comprised merely 4.1% and 6.4% respectively of the daily catch over an entire season.
Zappers kill thousands of (beneficial) bugs each night and only a handful mosquitoes
However, some people swear by them
Reviewers claim that the Flowtron 80w (and 40w and 15w) kills mosquitoes, even without the use of an attractant. They mention finding hundreds of dead mosquitoes underneath the device and suspect it works well because it attracts and kills mosquitoes.
Users also point out that where you put it is essential to its ability to get rid of mosquitos and actually speak of “cost-efficient, environmenally-sensitive bug elimination.”
Hanging it at least 20 feet away from where you are sitting keeps you from being exposed to the attraction zone (read: clouds of pesky bloodsuckers).
Strategically placing the Flowtron bug zapper near the source of the mosquitoes (i.e. on the route from the swamp or neighbors pond to your patio) is said to help. It’s also recommended to hang it between 4 and 6ft from the ground, not too close to a wall and use octenol in addition.
Depending on how they are employed, bug zappers seem to cause a decline in attacks eliminating the need for citronella torches, sprays, and long sleeves in the yard.
What to make of this controversy? Read the user reviews of the most popular bug control device on Amazon, the Flowtron BK-15D Electronic Insect Killer and decide for yourself.
Burn pinion wood
The smoke of burning pinion and its pine scent wood repels mosquitoes according to some people. Burn the wood in a patio fireplace, chiminea or pit. There’s no research available on the efficacy of this method. Lowes is one of the stores that sell this type of wood.
Vacuum and other traps
According to some these are the most powerful mosquito traps available because they lure with a CO2 plume and vacuum the mosquitoes in. These electricity or propane powered traps may use octenol to attract even more skeeters.
Similar devices use oscillating UV light and pulsing heat core systems to mimic subtle changes in human body temperature and thus attract mosquitoes and catch them in nets.
User experiences with various traps seem to vary greatly and to depend on personal situations and methods of use. Some users note finding bags full of mosquito butts after a night´s use while others mention catching only a few moths.
Unreliable repelling systems
Mosquito coils
Theoretically ‘smoke coils’ work but in day to day practice they are pretty much useless.
Outdoor mosquito coils burn Citronella oil which is derived from a specific type of lemongrass. Not only is the smoke quickly dissipated by wind but breathing it in may also be harmful to our health.
University of Illinois’ Dr. Robert Novak tested mosquito coils for ABC News and reported mosquitoes simply attacked the uncovered by smoke body parts.
when the smoke covered a human test subject’s shin, the mosquitoes flew around the subject’s leg and bit them on the calf.
Citronella wax buckets and barrels
Citronella oil in itself has some repelling abilities. Listed since 1948 by the FDA as a Generally Recognized as Safe biofungicide it works because the strong citrus-like scent masks the CO2 we exhale that attracts mosquitoes.
Due to this method of action, scented candles, a.k.a conceal candles can also provide a degree of protection. Other options are burning citronella essential oils in a burner.
Candles need to be placed close to where you are sitting and belong to the most inexpensive choices available. A little bit of wind however or being out of reach of the candles may result in instant bites.
Growing pest-repelling plants
It is a common practice in Africa and other parts of the world to grow mosquito repellent plants. The presence of certain aromatic foliage is commonly claimed to help keep the bugs at a distance.
This however is more out of necessity (they often have no other options) than out of effectivity. The reason these plants are grown in Third World countries is because really effective repellents such as DEET are not readily available.
Contrary to popular belief, plants themselves do not repel mosquitoes. Or only minimally.
Bug blocking plants produce strong volatile oils when the plant is touched or processed. These scents are used to mask scents people emit thus interfering with mosquitoes looking for prey.
Certain plants contain substances toxic to insects. These are commonly used as last resort measures in third world countries to make DIY insect sprays.
The common glorification of plants and botanical mosquito sprays despite, mosquitoes are too persistent to be deterred by these measures.
Things that do not work
Citrosa plants
The venerated Citrosa plant, a.k.a. Pellargonium citrosum, a.k.a. Pelargonium ‘Van Leenii’ is much ado about nothing. The best plant to get rid of mosquitoes according to uninformed believers, a hoax to the skeptic and informed.
Studies show that Pelargonium citrosum is ineffective in repelling Aedes aegypti mosquitos.
“Not only was the plant ineffective at protecting humans against Aedes mosquito bites, the mosquitoes were seen landing and resting on the citrosa plant on a regular basis.” (Wikipedia)
Ultrasonic repelling devices
Zappers may be controversial because of their indiscriminate action, ultrasonic emitters just don’t work. Supposedly causing a deafening 10,000 hertz sound wave these gadgets are pretty much useless. The thing is, mosquitoes can not hear that frequency. Just like humans can not.
Birds and bats
A popular tip offered on many websites is to get a bat or bird house. A single bat will eat almost 1000 mosquitos in an hour is the claim.
By introducing bat and bird houses to the yard you are supposedly creating a natural way of managing the skeeter problem.
Science shreds such old wives tales to pieces though. Various studies demonstrate that mosquitoes form less than 1% of the diet of wild bats.
Birds as keepers of the mosquito-free yard are another popular fallacy. The diet of Purple martins consists of about 3% mosquitoes according to research.
In summary
Getting rid of mosquitoes entirely in your garden may prove very difficult, perhaps impossible.
Treatment of water and taking away potential standing water vessels are the most efficient steps but even if you manage to make your yard completely free of breeding spots mosquitoes can fly in from miles away.
Of course misters and repellent devices can add to the mix allowing you to take matters in own hands (as much as possible).
Which approach or product will be best will depend on your personal situation. By reading this list in which we dispel myths and list methods that really work we you are setting the first step into a mosquito free yard (or at least a less pestered yard).
Taking action will help you take back your yard so you can spend time with friends and family without the nuisances and health risks caused by these miserable little gits.
What works for you? Or did not work?
Got some tips or experiences to add? Have any questions?
It is commonly believed that certain plant species repel mosquitoes and thus protect from bites.
Websites and other sources claim that mosquitoes and other bugs “can’t stand the pungent scent” a certain plant aerates thus making it “an excellent mosquito repellent”.
A friend of mine insists that growing lavender on his balcony under his bedroom window is the reason he never has the pesky bugs in his bedroom.
The truth is that omnipresent claims such as the following are often exaggerated or just nonsense.
“Certain plants will have some effect in repelling mosquitoes from areas of your home and garden.”
Because of public health concern it’s important to express that these and other claims should be taken with a grain of salt.
Almost 700 million people get a mosquito borne illness each year including diseases such as malaria, dengue, Filariasis and West Nile virus.
It would be great if the solution to this problem was to grow some plants but alas, reality is different.
Yes, plants have deterring properties (certain insects seem to dislike the typical lavender scent). Most popular and common claims however are only valid to some extent.
What you should know about mosquito deterring plants
Caveat. It really depends on how plants are used. Plants may repel insects by their scent or via other methods.
The presence of bug deterring plants is often referred to as spatial repellents or attraction inhibitors.
Anyone living in an area with a mosquito abundance knows that having Citrosa or similar plants in your home or in the garden does not suffice in getting rid of the vicious zits.
Let’s take a look at what plants can and can not do regarding the mosquito problem.
There are 3 abilities plants can possess to repel and influence mosquitoes and other pests.
1: Plants may mask scents
Certain plants such as lavender, thyme, and scented geranium produce volatile oils of which the strong scent masks the plants. This way the plants impeded insects from finding them. People use this to their advantage to confuse the bugs, masking both carbon dioxide and lactic acid exhalations as well as human sweat scent. In other words, mosquitoes may have a harder time finding you. In case of a mosquito abundance this trait may be less effective.
2: Plants may actively repel
Plants like wormwood, santolina, tansy and lavender produce a bitter or putrid scent that drives insects away. Plant pests such as insects and nematodes don’t like the smell of such plants. For this reason pest-repelling plants are often used in companion planting.
3: Some plants contain substances toxic to the insects
Certain plants can be used to create insect sprays. For instance chopped chili or the dried flower of pyrethrum and the popular citronella grasses, of which repelling oil is made. Source, ABC Gardening Australia’s Fact Sheet: Pest-Management Plants.
Fact is that plants, by their scent, can make it more difficult for mosquitoes to find you. Certain plants inhibit the signals you send out by which they locate you.
Research by Hoffman and Miller (2003) indicates that,
A reduction of the number of mosquitoes that take flight in the presence of an attractant is accomplished by masking the attraction at cellular level.
However,
Often the presence of plants is not sufficient
In reality, the effects of having these plants close is minimal. Plants can sense being touched and have developed defense mechanisms also called host plant resistance. When untouched plants’ resistance is less manifest.
For more effective repelling, commonly some kind of action needs to be taken.
Even growing a whole lot of repelling plants in close proximity does not make much difference. Iowa State University reports:
Plants release significant amounts of their repellent oils only when their leaves are crushed
But even then, crushing leaves offers minimal protection. Making essential oils, employing smoke of the leaves, using plant based volatiles, using stems and leaves as “strewing herbs”, seem to be more effective.
You should also be aware that not all repelling plants are created equally. Our botanical allies do not all share a single mode of action. (“a totally effective inhibitor has yet to be discovered”)
Add that to the fact that surprisingly little is known about how repellents act on their target insects and you will understand how ill-founded some claims are.
What’s more is that of the almost 3500 different species of mosquito not all will react the same to specific repellents.
Because the presence of plants can do only so much it’s good there are more effective solutions such as Mosquito Dunks and Mosquito Bits (and related products). These help minimize the mosquito problem by effectively killing the larvae.
In the past decades scientific research has increased. The WHO estimates that worldwide mosquitoes (indirectly) cause about 3 million deaths annually and demand for alternative repellents of botanical origin (natural) is growing.
Here’s what modern science has to say about the traditional use of plants to keep mosquitoes at bay.
The history of plants as ‘skeeter beaters’
Plants have been used to repel insects since ancient times. The ability of plants to repel insects comes from their evolution of traits used to deter herbivorous insects from eating them.
Usually, volatile oils (often, aromatic or essential oils) are emanated when the plant surface is injured from an animal’s bite.
These volatile compounds are either offensive to the animal (i.e. insect), are toxic to them, or they confound and confuse their mechanisms used to find edible food sources.
Many species of herbivorous flies are affected by these insect-inhibiting traits. These insect-inhibiting plant compounds are also effective against many biting flies, including mosquitos.
Since dawn of mankind, humans have kept insect-inhibiting plants around their living spaces for the express purpose of deterring mosquitoes.
Often, these were grown both in and around living spaces to serve as in-situ repellents.
Or, leaves and branches were collected and placed around areas desired to be kept mosquito-free—these were often broken up to free their aromatic oils,
or they were stewed/boiled to make a concentrated pot potpourri,
or they were burned to release a mosquito-repelling smoke.
The effectiveness of natural repellents depends on how they are deployed, and deterrence can vary between mosquito species.
The importance of staying mosquito-free was often driven by the fact that many areas of the world are places where serious mosquito-borne illnesses are prevalent—malaria, dengue fever, West Nile virus, yellow fever, various forms of encephalitis, among other diseases.
Plants which have mosquito-repellent properties include some that are cultivated and used by humans, as well as others that mostly just grow in the wild.
The following is a overview of science-backed mosquito repelling plants, how they are used, and their efficacy as repellents.
The best mosquito repelling plants
Basil
Several plants from the genus Ocimum are effective mosquito-repellers. Basil plants are among the most pungent of herbs, and therefore make excellent natural mosquito repellents (to a certain degree, more in a bit).
Basil does have one trait that makes it exceptional for the purpose of warding off mosquitoes.
Basil gives off a scent without the leaves having to be crushed or touched. It’s one of the few herbs that have this characteristic.
Among the many varieties, lemon basil and cinnamon basil seem to have the most potent mosquito repelling abilities.
Two 2009 studies of two different African species of Ocimum were published in the Tanzania Journal of Health Research and the Journal of Cellular Biology, respectively.
Both studies found that essential oils extracted from these plants were highly effective at repelling the malarial mosquito, Anopheles gambiae.
The studies called for promotion of plant extracts for commercialization in rural Tanzania where whole plants are currently used as repellents against malaria vectors (Kweka, E.J., et al., 2009).
The previously cited 2011 review in the Malaria Journal parroted very high levels of protection (up to 100%) from direct application to skin of essential oils from Ocimum, spp.
Placing potted plants around living spaces, along with thermal expulsion of essence from leaves via heating/burning provided between 21-79% protection (Ferreira Maia, M., & Moore, S.J., 2011, March 15).
For temporary protection when in the garden, rub some leaves on your skin releasing its essential oils sticking to your skin.
Wild Sage
Latana camara, known as wild sage, is a plant native to the tropical Americas that has been widely distributed as an ornamental, becoming become invasive in several parts of the world.
The active component for this plant includes pentacyclic triterpenoids (“Latana camara,” 2014). The previously discussed 2011 review in the Malaria Journal cited levels of protection of up to 95% from direct application to skin of essential oils from Latana, spp.
Placing potted plants around living spaces, along with thermal expulsion of essence from leaves via heating provided between 27-42% protection (Ferreira Maia, M., & Moore, S.J., 2011, March 15).
Thymus spp. (species)
Plants of the genus Thymus are more commonly known as thyme plants. Plants from this genus are known for their use as flavorings/spices and also for their medicinal properties.
Thymol is the essential oil derived from thyme, but there are also other terpenoid compounds that give thyme its aromatic traits, and also contribute to its insect-repelling properties.
According to the previously cited 2011 review in the Malaria Journal, levels of protection of up to 97% are possible from direct application to skin of essential oils from Thymus, spp.
Direct burning of leaves provided 85-90% protection for up to 90 minutes (Ferreira Maia, M., & Moore, S.J., 2011, March 15).
Lemon Thyme
Citrosa, aka the Mosquito Plant is much hyped but if you go by what science has found you’d rather get lemon thyme.
Research shows that crushed lemon thyme (Thymus X citriodorus) has 62 percent of the repelling activity of DEET. Citrosa up to 40%.
Neem
Neem is derived from the plant Azadirachta indica. Neem is widely advertised as a natural insect repellent, and it has been tested for repellency against a range of disease-vectoring insects. Field studies from India showed promise for neem-based repellents.
According to the previously cited 2011 review in the Malaria Journal, a number of neem-based applications have been examined, with varying results.
Direct burning of leavesprovided 76% protection for up to two hours. One-percent neem oil volatilized in a kerosene lamp provided 80-94% protection from mosquitoes,
while thermal expulsion of volatiles via heating of leaves provided 25% protection.
Topical application to skin of 2% neem oil provided 57% protection for up to four hours (Ferreira Maia, M., & Moore, S.J., 2011, March 15).
The Neem tree (Scientific Name – Azadirachta indica) provides many useful compounds that are used as pesticides and can be used as mosquito repellent/killer.
Eucalyptus
The plant family Myrtaceae contains several species which are known for their aromatic essential oils. Some of the better known species include the lemon eucalyptus tree, Corymbia citriodora, and species within the genus Eucalyptus.
The essential oils from these plants contain p-menthane-3,8-diol (also referred to a PMD) and other terpenoid compounds which have quite remarkable mosquito-repelling qualities.
The CDC added this compound to their effective repellents list and the Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent Spray with 40% eucalyptus oil is a bestseller.
According to the previously cited 2011 review in the Malaria Journal, levels of protection of up to 100% for several hours are possible from direct application to skin of varying concentrations of essential oils containing PMD.
Direct burning of leaves and thermal expulsion of volatiles via heating provided protection varying between 48-79% (Ferreira Maia, M., & Moore, S.J., 2011, March 15).
Lemongrass
Oil of citronella is derived from the lemongrass plant, Cymbopogon, spp. Citronella is a popular natural insect-repellent, and is used as a component in many outdoor skin-care products, such as balms, sunscreens, repellents, etc.
In 2004, the U.S. Department of Agriculture tested the effectiveness of a number of citronella-based mosquito repellents, and found that these products offered from 0-5 hours of protection, depending on the product used (Cox, C., 2005, Fall). According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), citronella oil is considered a Minimum Risk Pesticide.
A 2011 review of natural insect repellents published in the Malaria Journal cited very high levels of protection (up to 100%) from direct application to skin of essential oils from citronella.
Thermal expulsion of citronella essence from leaves that were heated or directly burned in rooms still provided between 49-79% protection (Ferreira Maia, M., & Moore, S.J., 2011, March 15).
Just planting some of these plants is not a guarantee for a mosquito-free time. A plant that could be more suited for this task is the next contender.
Catnip
catnip, a common mosquito repelling plant
Catnip, Nepeta cataria, produces a terpenoid essential oil, nepetalactone, which has fly and mosquito-repellent properties.
A 2005 study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology compared the effectiveness of an essential oil called nepetalactone to that of DEET, the most commonly-used synthetic insect repellent. (Nepetalactone is the cat magnet, it gives catnip its distinct scent.)
In a laboratory setting, the catnip product was shown to be more effective than DEET for repelling insects from spaces.
However, it was less effective than DEET as a topical repellent applied to skin (Bernier, U.R., Furman, K.D., Kline, D.L., Allan, S., & Barnard, D.R., 2005, May).
Marigolds
The brightly colored border plants with their distinctive smell do not only put off certain gardeners. Mosquitoes seem to dislike the plant’s scent too. Or at least essential oils derived from the orange flowering plant. Claims that the scent of the plant itself are not scientifically grounded.
Marigolds roots contain a chemical substance called thiopenes. This plant is valued as a companion plant since it repels white flies, aphids, cabbage maggots among other pests.
A ‘screened cage method’ study with human subjects examining the repellent action of essential oils derived from Marigolds and Myrtle compared to DEET demonstrated that,
The protection time of 50% essential oils of marigold and myrtle were respectively 2.15 and 4.36 hours compared to 6.23 hours for DEET 25%.
Citrosa, ‘The Mosquito Plant’
Other plants which may have mosquito-repelling qualities include those in genus Citrosa, also known as the “mosquito plant.” Crushed citrosa leaves have 30 to 40 percent of the repellency of DEET according to scientists.
Research demonstrates the plant is ineffective as an attraction inhibitor against Aedes aegypti mosquitos.
“Not only was the plant ineffective at protecting humans against Aedes mosquito bites, the mosquitoes were seen landing and resting on the citrosa plant on a regular basis.”
Other plants
Lavender is another perennial herbaceous plant that contains a pleasant-smelling essential oil which repels mosquitos.
Crushing the leaves of the herb lemon balm (also known as Horsemint) and rubbing the crushed leaves on your skin supposedly provides a measure of protection against mosquito bites. Stone root plants also have mosquito-repelling qualities.
In Tanzanian villages the most commonly used mosquito repelling plants are Basil Mtule (Ocimum suave) and African Blue Basil (Ocimum kilimandscharicum). A study showed that 67% out of 120 households interviewed used these plants.
Chemical analysis of the essential oils of these two plants showed that they were somewhat similarly effective as citronella and DEET in reducing bites.
In another African field study, orymbia citriodora also known as lemon-scented gum, blue spotted gum, lemon eucalyptus and eucalyptus citriodora turned out to be most effective.
In fact, many different types of plants have mosquito repellent action when essential oils or extracts are derived. According this study, crude extract of the Balloon plant or Love in a Puff for instance gives protection against mosquito bites too.
I myself am going to put some big pots of basil in my kitchen this summer. In case this doesn’t get rid of my buzzing foes I will still be making some delicious home made pesto.
I may also grow some lemon thyme or eucalyptus for culinary purposes and to to throw on the barbecue to ward off the flying pests.
Perhaps position some pots of marigolds or horsemint near entrances to prevent skeeters (hopefully) from entering my bedroom window or patio door.
You never know if the scent helps prevent them from crossing these barriers and then of course fingers crossed that the brightly colored flowers don’t attract wasps.
How to use as DIY deterring spray
Besides picking some leaves, crushing them burning them, and rubbing the mashed leaves on your skin there are some other ways to make natural repellents.
The oil method: this involves covering crushed foilage with a neutral oil like almond, strain the oil, add new foilage and cover with the strained oil again. This should be repeated for a few days. The end product is mixed lotion or with alcohol to make a spray.
The alcohol method: the crushed foilage is steeped in alcohol and put aside for a few weeks to cure.
Again, an important nuance is that, contrary to DEET,
plant-based repellents do not have this rigorously tested safety record, with most being deemed safe because they have simply been used for a long time. However, many plant-based repellents contain compounds that should be used with caution. (PubMed)
Wrapping it up, do plants work as mosquito repellents?
Yes they do but only up to so far. Many plants offer limited protection against mosquitoes, depending on how they are used.
This may be important for those living in poorer countries which are located in tropical or other areas of the world where mosquito-borne illness are endemic, and where DEET-based repellents are unavailable or too costly to acquire.
Such practices are merely a last resort application driven out of having no other options and certainly not an all-natural, effective solution.
It is important, to emphasize the greater effectiveness of DEET-based repellents; especially for those who might be traveling to areas known for mosquito-vectored diseases.
I haven’t encountered one botanical or natural mosquito repellent that have had lasting effect at all. Slather it on and a few minutes later mosquitoes are already landing right on top of it.
Rubbing some leaves of these plants can be fine during a quick trip in the garden picking some herbs for dinner. It’s effects may be similar to using the Off! Clip On Fan.
Since they generally only protect for a while it’s best not to rely on these plants for hours on end. Rubbing some homemade lemon thyme based anti-mosquito lotion on your skin will not keep you safe for long.
Contrary to what is commonly thought are natural products derived from plant extracts not healthier, organic and more skin-friendly choices.
Even though none of the plant-derived chemicals tested to date demonstrates the broad effectiveness and duration of protection of DEET, a few of them do show repellent activity (Sukumar et al., 1991; Trongtokit et al., 2005).
Especially with the recent introduction of the West Nile virus in the U.S. it all boils down to efficacy. DEET and in lesser degree Picaridin are the most efficient repellents. Botanical repellents need to be re-applied up to 4 times more often.
Plants known for their repellent abilities in the garden or home can be nice additions as quick, natural, short-term repellents but don’t count on them if you take protection seriously.
What do you think?
Do you use plants at home to keep mosquitoes at a distance? Or make your own botanical repellent? Share your thoughts and experiences below.
Cox, C. (2005, Fall). Plant-based mosquito repellents: Making a careful choice. J Pesticide Reform, 25(3), 6-7. Retrieved from BeyondPesticides.org.
Kweka, E.J., Mwang’onde, B.J., Mahande, M.J., Mosha, F.W., Kimaro, E.E., Msangi, S…Mahande, A.M. (2009, April-June). Evaluation of Ocimum suave essential oil against anthropophilic malaria vector Anopheles gambiae s.s after ten years of storage. Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 11(2), 94-96. Retrieved from BioLine.org.
Kweka, E.J., Nkya, H.M., Lyaruu, L., Kimaro, E.E., .Mwang’onde, B.J., & Mahande, A.M. (2009, October). Efficacy of Ocimum kilimandscharicum plant extracts after four years of storage against Anopheles gambiae ss. J Cell Anim Biol, 3(10), 171-174. Retrieved from AcademicJournals.org.
Maia, M.F., & Moore, S.J. (2011, March 15). Plant-based insect repellents: a review of their efficacy, development and testing. Malar J 10(Suppl), S11. Doi:10.1186/1475-2875-10-S1-S11
USEPA. (2014). Minimum Risk Pesticides. Retrieved from EPA.
Which are the most common bugs of Florida? Florida has at least 12,500 insect species. They all eat something, and whether humans call them “pests” depends on how they impact our lives.
Some of them eat the plants we consider important, and some of them bite, sting, or try to feed on us. Many insects are considered invasive species that arrived in Florida by accident or were intentionally introduced. Many of the invaders affect Florida residents and its environment in a negative way.
The following is a sampling of the 30 insect species most common to our state.
Palmetto Bug. Scientific name: Eurycotis floridana. This large cockroach grows to a length of 30–40 mm (1.2–1.6 in). It is found mostly outdoors, where it eats detritus and leaf-litter, but occasionally will sneak into houses.
‘No-See-Um’. These are the biting midges of the genus Culicoides; 47 species of which are known to occur in Florida. They are so small that you can’t see them (hence the nickname ‘No-See-Um’). They are a nuisance to people outdoors who might spend time near shorelines or wetland areas when winds are calm. They leave small red welts where they bite.
Yellow Fly. Scientific name: Diachlorus ferrugatus. Yellow flies are ferocious biters, with female flies needing a blood meal in order to develop their eggs after mating. Their peak season in Florida is April through June.
Stable Fly (Dog Fly). Scientific name: Stomoxys calcitrans. This biting fly originated in Asia, but now can be found worldwide. It mostly attacks dogs and cattle, but will also bite humans. In northwest Florida, stable flies will conglomerate in large numbers in seaweed washed-up on the shoreline and attack humans who venture too close. The small flies are affected by wind currents, and how the winds blow can determine how bad the biting will become. The flies can become so bad that it affects tourism.
Carolina wolf spider. Scientific name: Hogna carolinensis. These large spiders can reach 25 mm (0.98 in) in size. Though they look ferocious, they shy away from humans. They are beneficial in that they consume insect pests for food. Females are noted for carrying their young on their back.
Red Fire Ant. Scientific name: Solenopsis invicta. The fire ant is native to South America, but has become a pest in the southern United States. Fire ant mounds can be found in back yards all over Florida. Fire ants give a painful sting that often leaves a swollen pustule on the skin.
Formosan Subterranean Termite. Scientific name: Coptotermes formosanus. An invasive species from Asia, which arrived in Florida around 1980. It is often nicknamed the ‘super-termite’ because of its destructive habits. These termites can seriously damage a wooden structure in as little as 3 months.
Citrus Leafminer. Scientific name: Phyllocnistis citrella. This moth is an invasive species from Asia that first entered Florida in 1993. The moth’s larvae mines the leaves of citrus trees, severely impacting the Florida citrus industry.
Southern Mole Cricket. Scientific name: Scapteriscus borellii. This insect is an invasive species from South America. It is fairly large—about 3–5 cm (1.2–2.0 in) long, and can be found in yards all over Florida where turf-grass is planted. Mole crickets burrow beneath the turf, feeding on the roots of the grass, causing damage to lawns.
Yellow Fever Mosquito. Scientific name: Aedes aegypti. This mosquito is an invader from Africa which hitched a ride to the New World with the slave trade. It can spread the dengue fever, chikungunya, and yellow fever viruses, along with other diseases. Yellow fever became a scourge of the tropics and neotropics until effective mosquito control was instituted after about 1900. A yellow fever vaccine was developed by 1937.
Eastern Velvet Ant. Scientific name: Dasymutilla occidentalis. This insect is actually a wingless species of wasp, attaining an approximate length of 0.75 in (1.9 cm). Females are capable of an extremely painful sting, hence the ant’s nick-name “cow killer”.
Eastern Carpenter Bee. Scientific name: Xylocopa virginica. It is often mistaken for a large bumblebee, as they are similar in size and appearance. They sometimes bore holes in wood dwellings, becoming minor pests. Only females can sting.
American Dog Tick. Scientific name: Dermacentor variabilis. This tick is common throughout the eastern and southern United States, to include Florida. It is one of the most well-known hard ticks and is a vector for Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia.
Asian tiger mosquito. Scientific name: Aedes albopictus. This mosquito was first documented in Florida in 1986. It is a vector for several diseases, including equine encephalitis.
Tomato Hornworm. Scientific name: Manduca quinquemaculata. Tomato hornworms are large caterpillars that are the larvae of the Five-Spotted Moth. They are voracious eaters of tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant and peppers in back yard gardens and can quickly defoliate these plants.
Brown Recluse Spider. Scientific name: Loxosceles reclusa. Only the extreme northwest portion of the Florida Panhandle lies within the natural range of this spider. The brown recluse possesses a powerful venom and can give a serious bite. Luckily, bites to humans from the species are uncommon.
Two-Striped Walkingstick. Scientific name: Anisomorpha buprestoides. This is the most common stick insect in Florida, and can be found feeding on leaves of trees and shrubs.
Hieroglyphic Cicada. Scientific name: Anisomorpha buprestoides. This cicada prefers to eat the sap of oak trees. It is the first species to be heard in spring–its song starts with a sequence of progressively softer whiney bursts and ends with an even whine.
Florida Carpenter Ant. Scientific name: Camponotus floridanus. This ant is among the largest ants found in Florida. They do not sting, but can bite. They nest in soft rotting or pithy wood.
Southern Black Widow. Scientific name: Latrodectus mactans. This venomous spider is found throughout the southeastern United States. It likes to inhabit wood and rock piles, rodent burrows, and hollow tree stumps.
Thorn Bug. Scientific name: Umbonia crassicornis. The thorn bug is an occasional pest of ornamentals and fruit trees in southern Florida. The insect causes damage by piercing the plant tissue and sucking the sap and by making cuts in the plant for egg laying.
Lovebug. Scientific name: Plecia nearctica. Lovebugs swarm to mate in late spring and during the summer. Males and females will pair and remain stuck together during mating. Automobiles driving through a swarm of lovebugs will emerge covered with smashed bugs, and if not washed off soon, the insect residue can damage the paint on a car.
Florida Scorpionfly. Scientific name: Panorpa floridana. No living individuals of the Florida scorpionfly have ever been observed. Nothing is thus known about the insect’s habits and life history. It appears as if males of this species have a large stinger in their tail; however this is just a reproductive organ.
Spined Soldier Bug. Scientific name: Podisus maculiventris. This carnivorous insect is very beneficial to mankind, as it is a predator of around 90 insect species, to include several crop and garden pests.
Citrus Gall Midge. Scientific name: Prodiplosis longifila. This tiny midge lays its eggs in the buds of lime trees. The larvae when hatched feed on the flowers, damaging them, and interfering with fruit development.
Catalpa Worm. Scientific name: Ceratomia catalpae. This “worm” is actually the caterpillar of the Catalpa Sphinx Moth. These moths lay their eggs on the leaves of the southern catalpa tree, which hatch into the colorful larvae. The caterpillars are prized as bait by fishermen.
Zebra Longwing Butterfly. Scientific name: Heliconius charitonia. The zebra longwing butterfly is the state butterfly of Florida. It lays its eggs on the leaves of the passion fruit vine, and has a very colorful larval (caterpillar) stage.
Miami Blue Butterfly. Scientific name: Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri. A small butterfly that is native to coastal areas of southern Florida. Once very common throughout its range, it has become critically endangered because of habitat loss. It may be the rarest insect in the United States.
Florida Predatory Stinkbug. Scientific name: Euthyrhynchus floridanus. This carnivorous insect is very beneficial to mankind, because most of its prey consists of plant-damaging bugs, beetles, and caterpillars.
Gulf Coast Tick. Scientific name: Amblyomma maculatum. This tick is common throughout the southern United States, including all of Florida. It is of increasing concern because of its ability to transmit several pathogens of veterinary and medical importance.
References
Frank, J.H. & Thomas, M.C. (2015). Invasive Insects (Adventive Pest Insects) in Florida. Retrieved from http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in503
IFAS. (2015). Featured Creatures. Retrieved from
http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/main/search_common.htm
You may have heard about pepper and the substance that makes them spicy, capsaicin, being used for pain relief. For instance by arthritis sufferers.
By over-stimulating the nerves pepper is claimed to offer mosquito itch relief as well. We are wondering, is this true? Can peppers really make mosquito itch go away. Let’s take a look at what studies say.
The claim
Rubbing peppers or applying capsaicin cream on your mosquito welt takes away the annoying itch.
The theory, pepper as an ancient medicine
Peppers have been known for their medicinal properties since the dawn of mankind.
For the Native Americans red cayenne pepper was not only part of their diet but they also used Capsicum annuum or frutescens as a medicine for at least 9,000 years.
Cayenne has also been part of traditional Chinese, Indian Ayurvedic, Korean and Japanese medicines. Among other remedies it was applied to the skin for arthritis and muscle pain. Capsaicin creams are nowadays used to offer relief from psoriasis itch.
Red pepper was also used by indigenous peoples as an aphrodisiac (don’t make the mistake to use it topically for this purpose, since this will probably set you on fire in an unintentional way.)
Red pepper is a painkiller
Nowadays, capsaicin cream is used to treat muscle and joint pain and some people are also using it to treat itching caused by a number of medical conditions.
The University of Maryland Medical Center and other renowned medical sources note that capsaicin helps reduce pain. It should be noted that peppers work for some kinds of pain only.
It’s a relatively safe medication, although one common side effect is itching or burning so it’s a little odd that people are using it to treat just that.
The theory is that capsaicin blocks a chemical in the skin that plays a role in the processes causing pain and itch.
Research shows that peppers deplete your nerves of a pain signaling molecule called substance P.
How does capsaicin reduce pain?
When applied to the skin, capsaicin focuses on substance P and empties the molecule from nerve endings in the so called peripheral tissues. This causes the initial burning sensation. Capsaicin also prevents nerve cells from making more substance P.
Promising research is going on as we speak. Red pepper is currently being researched for its abilities to create a new class of painkillers (so called VR1 receptor blockers ).
The scientists suspect to create painkillers that relief pain more directly with fewer side effects (when compared to traditional analgesics such as morphine and aspirin).
That being nice and all, back to itch.
Do peppers and capsaicin reduce itch?
Beware if you haven’t used a capsaicin containing pain relieving cream before. The active ingredient is the same stuff that makes habanero and other hot peppers taste so hot and spicy.
The substance is used in pepper spray too, although in lower concentrations. Especially the first few uses it can really burn so if you have delicate skin, make sure to apply it carefully and lightly.
Even in low concentrations, they can really burn the first few times you use them. Some people have skin that is simply too delicate, thin, or sensitive to use these kinds of products.
Capsaicin cream induces itching and burning and ultimately may stop itch.
It is theorzied that capsaicin cream can sooth itching too by overstimulating the nerves so that they switch off all together. Again, this is the effect of neutralizing the substance P. molecule.
The University of Maryland notes that, “capsaicin cream can reduce itchingand inflammation from psoriasis.”
Let’s take a look at what other research has to say.
Studies
A study made use of six randomized controlled trials on the effects of capsaicin cream. Three of the studies looked at patients who had itching from kidney dialysis and didn’t come up with enough data to make any conclusions one way or the other.
When capsaicin cream was used on patients with itching of unknown cause (idiopathic itch) it was a little more effective than the placebo, but there was not enough data from this study to draw any scientific conclusions.
Participants with a localized itch called notalgia paresthetica did not note any significant difference between the capsaicin cream and placebo. This type of itch is also called “Hereditary localized pruritus”.
The medical term for itching is pruritus.
The study done on participants with itch that typically occurs on the forearm, called neurogenic itch syndrome of the upper extremitiesn (brachioradial paresthetica) was not performed with good enough conditions to draw any scientific conclusions.
What to make of it..
Doctors are lacking good studies that can conclusively say one way or another whether capsaicin cream can help itching.
The six trails that the above study examined had limited evidence or poor experimental conditions which are why no conclusions could be drawn.
At present, there is no convincing evidence for the use of capsaicin to treat pruritus in any medical condition. Further research is needed, and should attempt to address methodological issues identified through this review including unblinding and the suitability of crossover designs. PubMed.
Nonetheless, based on this particular study, there seems to be no scientific evidence that capsaicin cream can help itching, but there’s no evidence to the contrary, either.
Another study however does show promising results.
In the experiment test persons who experience itch due to contact with water were treated with topical capsaicin cream three times a day for four weeks. After the treatment the test persons did not experience itch upon exposure to water.
(itch caused by water, in medical terms, is called aquagenic pruritus)
Concluding
Study findings are contradictory. There is some, although limited, evidence that topical application of capsaicin cream helps prevent itch.
It should also be noted that capsaicin works best upon continued application of capsaicin. Since mosquito bite itch relief is an ad hoc affair this aspect may make it less suitable for this purpose.
Since application causes a burning sensation at first the use of such creams may wrok counterproductive for some people. Prolonged use does seem to reduce these effects.
All in all, whether such creams and peppers themselves are the most effective way of offering mosquito bite itch relief remains to be seen.
This really makes me wonder, has anyone tried capsaicin cream for mosquito bites?
Since, in my case, the itch only lasts for minutes I don’t really need an anti-itch remedy. Which makes that I would love to hear about your experiences. You can share them below.
How to use capsaicin cream or peppers
If you decide to want to try capsaicin cream to reduce the annoying mosquito itch there are a few things to keep in mind.
First of all, start out with applying just a little bit. Especially if you don’t know how sensitive your skin is to the fiery substance.
It’s probably best not to apply the cream (or raw pepper) with your fingers. You will forget about having applied it until you rub your eye later. The painful reminder is likely to bring tears to your eyes. Believe me, I have been there because I love to cook with peppers.
Want to go hardcore? Plan on using the raw pepper on your bumps? Keep in mind that for a commercially prepared cream for topical pain relief is probably safer than doing it yourself. The all-natural way of applying pepper to your skin can cause serious burning and even blisters. Over-the-counter topical creams containing up to 0.075% capsaicin are FDA approved.
If you really need to get rid of the itch systemic therapy, in other words oral medication, may help. Antihistamines show to be able to control itch although not always.
mosquitoes do not only bite people, they bite squirrels too
If you’ve ever experienced one, there’s a good chance that you’ve asked yourself why a mosquito bite itches so much.
Most of the time, the swelling and redness that are associated with a bite from a mosquito are minor annoyances when compared to the irresistible itching sensation that is another very common reaction.
But what causes the itch and why does it affect some people and not others? This in-depth exploration of the science behind an itchy mosquito bite should help to clear these questions right up for you.
What Makes the Mosquito Bite Itch?
There are a whole series of events that lead up to that itch, and it starts with a female mosquito’s need for blood. When she sticks her long snout into your flesh, it pokes around in there, effectively acting as a probe, until she is able to find a blood vessel and stick her mouthparts into it.
The mosquito’s saliva is introduced to the area around her injection site and the human body will immediately begin to react to the ingredients that the saliva contains.
There is a protein found in mosquito saliva that acts as a natural anticoagulant, helping to keep the supply of blood flowing for longer, but that’s not all this protein carries. There are also polypeptides present in it that stimulate the body’s immune system as well.
One of the first things that your body will do when it perceives this threat is to call out the troops, in a manner of speaking. The first wave of defenders is a type of antibody that is known as immunoglobulin E, or IgE, and these antibodies will immediately begin to send signals to the rest of you immune system that backup is needed.
The chemical that they use to get the attention of the immune system is called histamine and in a way, it’s this helpful neurotransmitter that actually causes your mosquito bite to itch.
Histamine acts as an irritant to the cells in the area where the mosquito was feeding, causing them to swell, which is what creates the painful bump on the surface of the skin.
This inflammation is generally an efficient and effective method for getting a quick response from the immune system, but it also irritates the nerves in the skin, which is what will ultimately cause the mosquito bite to start to itch.
Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch More at Night?
Many people have observed that their mosquito bite doesn’t itch as much when they wake up in the morning, but that by the time they are getting ready to go to bed, the itching is nearly unbearable.
Studies have shown that our body begins to produce a natural stress-relieving hormone called cortisol in the very early morning hours in order to prepare us for the process of waking up.
Cortisol can also offer temporary relief of inflammation throughout the body, so the high morning levels of it can stop the itching from a mosquito bite for the first few hours of your day.
By the late afternoon or early evening however, the itching will normally have returned as cortisol levels drop to their lowest point in the day.
Why Do Some People Itch While Others Don’t?
Just like some folks are bitten much more than others are there some people who suffer a great deal from the bite of a mosquito and yet there are others who seem to be nearly impervious to the effects of a bite.
A major determinant in how most adults react to a mosquito bite is based on their early experiences with them.
That’s because the first time that a person receives a mosquito bite, there generally won’t be a reaction due to the fact that the body doesn’t recognize the saliva of the mosquito as a threat yet.
After that first sting however, the immune system becomes more sensitive to the presence of it in the body and faster to initiate its histamine response in defense. For most people, each subsequent bite makes the body more efficient at dealing with mosquito saliva, so histamine become less and less necessary over time.
That means less swelling in the area, which results in less irritation to the local nerves and, in the end, less itching. In fact, there are many adults who show little or no reaction to a mosquito bite if they were exposed to a lot of bites when they were younger.
For this reason, if a person is not exposed to many mosquito bites as a child, or if a long time passes between being bitten, there’s a good chance that their reaction when they do receive a bite will be a bit more intense than it would be in a person who had been bitten more often and thus, it will probably cause more itching.
There are also some people who develop a hyper-histamine response to a mosquito bite, which can result in a concentration of the chemical in the affected area and create painful swelling and itching for the victim and even leave bruises in some cases. These more dramatic symptoms are actually indicative of an allergy to mosquito bites.
My own experiences
As any other I hate mosquitoes. I do not suffer from itchy swollen welts though. I do experience itch, however it’s gone within 20 minutes or so. Just like the tiny swelling that forms.
On the other hand, I do get bitten a lot. I’m a so called mosquito magnet. They seem to like me more than my former girlfriends too. Which is cool. I don’t have to carry those welts with me for days. So let me be her decoy. As an almost mosquito welt resistant individual I’m fine with that.
The only thing that really annoys me is their buzzing in my ears. And the fact that I sometimes wake up from the itch on my hands. It’s always my hands they need to pick at night.
Why The Itch Can Be A Good Thing
With the risk on catching the West Nile virus now being a reality in the US the itch also has a purpose. It lets you know you have been bitten by a mosquito. In other countries, malaria, dengue fever, and other diseases can be transmitted by the pesky bugs.
If your body didn’t react at all you wouldn’t know about the bite and possible sickness. The itch, as well as the bump, are indications of a possible cause of the flu you may be experiencing afterwards.
Why Scratching Really Does Make the Itching Worse
If you were ever bitten by a mosquito as a child, you were probably told by your mother that scratching the itch would only make it worse, and as it turns out, of course your mother was right.
Remember how histamine caused inflammation near the bite site and that’s why the nerves became irritated and itchy?
Well, histamine isn’t the only thing out there that’s capable of irritating nerves. Scratching the skin can definitely have the same effect, thereby creating a vicious cycle of itching and scratching and itching even more. Some people put peppers or capsaicin creams on their bites to reduce the itch. This also worsens the itching at first but it seems to help for some.
No one enjoys being bitten by a mosquito or the terrible itching sensation that so often follows it. But hopefully now that you’re armed with this knowledge of why a mosquito bite itches, the next time that you’re bitten, you’ll be better able to resist the urge to scratch.
The most effective products to avoid getting bitten after all are those containing DEET.
Improving your yard can help a lot in preventing the vicious airborne bugs from finding you in the first place.
Are your mosquito welts really itchy? Which mosquito bite remedies work for you? Share your experiences below.
Making everything in the yard as dry as possible would be ideal to get rid of the pest but you may want to keep your nice Koi pond.
you may reduce the influx of the flying pests in your yard.
