Experts Reveal Why Mosquitoes Prefer Certain People and How Asian Tiger Mosquitoes Spread in Israel

Mosquitoes, particularly female mosquitoes, are a common nuisance during summer nights in Israel, buzzing around and biting exposed skin. Dr. Alon Zilberbush, an entomologist at Oranim College, explains that mosquitoes are attracted not by the blood itself but by volatile compounds emitted by the human body, such as carbon dioxide and specific scent chemicals. People with blood type O, for example, emit a more attractive scent cocktail to mosquitoes. While male mosquitoes feed on sugar sources and do not bite humans, females require blood, likely for egg development, with cholesterol recently identified as a key component they seek.

The familiar buzzing sound is caused by wing movement and also serves as a form of communication among mosquitoes. Despite popular belief, blue light insect traps are not a reliable solution for mosquito control in Israel, as they attract various insects and only some mosquito species.

Israel hosts about five mosquito species that bite humans, with the common house mosquito being the most prevalent and active mainly at night. However, the Asian tiger mosquito, an invasive species originating from Southeast Asia, has become an aggressive daytime biter since its arrival in Israel around 2002. This species prefers humans over birds and thrives due to climate change and human activity, spreading globally even to colder regions like Sweden.

Dr. Zilberbush notes that the Asian tiger mosquito finds Israel's warm climate and abundant water sources ideal, making it a persistent problem. While the common house mosquito season is waning by July, the Asian tiger mosquito population is expected to rise, signaling ongoing challenges for residents. The expert warns that this tropical mosquito will continue to be a significant pest during the summer months.