New Delhi, August 8: If you feel like mosquitoes bite you more than others, you might just be their favorite. However, not every mosquito is drawn to you. A new study has revealed that different species of mosquitoes are attracted to different humans.
Researchers at Florida International University (FIU) conducted this study involving 119 participants. They focused on three mosquito species known to transmit serious diseases to humans. The researchers observed how these species were attracted to various human scents and the chemical signals emitted from our bodies.
The study included Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus, and Culex quinquefasciatus. These species are known to spread diseases like dengue, Zika, yellow fever, and West Nile virus. The results were surprising. Each species showed distinct preferences for certain individuals. They “read” human body odors differently to decide which person to approach.
Human skin can emit over a thousand types of volatile organic compounds, many of which scientists are still studying. These chemicals contribute to our natural scent and can serve as signals for mosquitoes.
The study found that Aedes aegypti was more attracted to individuals with lower levels of specific volatile chemicals and those who did not wear strong fragrances. This species showed a slight preference for men and is primarily active during the day.
On the other hand, Aedes albopictus, also known as the Asian tiger mosquito, was drawn to certain ketones and plant-like scent chemicals naturally released from the skin. This species is also active during the daytime.
The third species, Culex quinquefasciatus, exhibited different preferences. Typically more active at night, this mosquito relies heavily on identifying the microbiome—bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms—present on human skin.
Our skin is home to millions of microorganisms, which influence our scent. The study indicated that certain bacterial families can attract mosquitoes, while others may deter them.
This research was published in the scientific journal iScience. The research team was led by FIU neurogeneticist Matthew Degenaro, with PhD student Kylie Marrero spearheading the study. According to the researchers, the findings could help develop new methods to prevent mosquito-borne diseases in the future.
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