Inland Empire Heat Wave Spurs 10-to-20 Mosquito Hatchlings per Adult Death

Q: Why does scorching summer heat actually trigger a massive explosion of mosquitoes instead of killing them off?

Scorching summer heat often increases mosquitoes because it speeds up their life cycle rather than wiping them out. Vector control expert Brian Reisinger said hotter weather accelerates the development of young mosquitoes and boosts available food sources, so even if some adults die, many more can hatch quickly in their place. Mosquitoes depend on standing water to reproduce, and warm temperatures make eggs hatch faster and larvae mature into biting adults in far less time. In cooler weather, that process can take much longer; during a heat wave, multiple new generations can emerge rapidly. Heat and humidity also help mosquitoes stay active, especially in shaded, damp areas. That is why mosquito outbreaks can seem to appear suddenly. The real driver is not heat alone, but heat combined with breeding sites such as buckets, birdbaths, clogged gutters, pool covers, flowerpots, toys, tarps, tires, and other containers holding even small amounts of water. Those small water sources can produce large numbers of mosquitoes very quickly. Experts say the most effective response is to remove standing water at least weekly, scrub and cover water-holding containers, maintain screens, and use repellents and protective clothing when needed. In western San Bernardino County, the West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District also offers free inspections and mosquito-eating fish to help residents reduce larvae before they become adults.

1 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Jul 25

West Valley vector control experts expect mosquito numbers to climb this week in the Inland Empire, even after counts had been running below last year.
Heat is accelerating mosquito maturity and boosting food sources, Brian Reisinger said, so each adult that dies can be replaced by 10 to 20 newly hatched mosquitoes.
Ontario-area officials urged residents to dump standing water—especially from manmade containers favored by ankle-biter mosquitoes—and said free home inspections and mosquito-eating fish are available in western San Bernardino County.
The same heat wave is also driving more pest activity beyond mosquitoes, with a local pest-control company saying its 12 technicians have handled increased calls for ants, spiders and termites all week.