What is the Difference Between Anopheles and Aedes?

Anopheles and Aedes are two different genera of mosquitoes that differ in several aspects, such as their appearance, breeding habits, and the diseases they transmit. Here are the main differences between Anopheles and Aedes mosquitoes:

1. Appearance: Anopheles mosquitoes usually have delicate legs and are black to brown in color, with a pair of mouth palps the same length as their proboscis. Aedes mosquitoes, on the other hand, have stout legs and can be identified by their stark black and white stripes.
2. Breeding habits: Anopheles mosquitoes typically breed in rainy season dirty water pools, while Aedes mosquitoes are container breeders that lay eggs in artificial containers containing water.
3. Resting position: Anopheles mosquitoes rest parallel to the surface, breathing from spicules located on their thorax. Aedes and Culex mosquitoes rest at an angle to the surface, suspended from the surface of the water by their siphon and breathing through the siphon.
4. Disease transmission: Anopheles mosquitoes are vectors for malaria, one of the deadliest diseases caused by parasites. Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, transmit dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus.

In summary, Anopheles and Aedes mosquitoes differ in their appearance, breeding habits, resting positions, and the diseases they transmit.

Comparative Table: Anopheles vs Aedes

Here is a table comparing the differences between Anopheles and Aedes mosquitoes:

Anopheles mosquitoes are known for transmitting malaria, while Aedes mosquitoes are responsible for spreading dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, and zika virus. Anopheles mosquitoes usually breed in dirty water pools created by rain, whereas Aedes mosquitoes lay their eggs in freshwater. Anopheles pupae are green, while Aedes pupae are colourless. Anopheles mosquitoes do not produce any sound, while Aedes mosquitoes produce a very faint sound. Anopheles mosquitoes have delicate legs, whereas Aedes mosquitoes have stout legs. Anopheles mosquitoes are most active at night, while Aedes mosquitoes are predominantly active during the daytime.