Does Wildfire Smoke and Low Air Quality Affect Mosquito Populations?

With smoke from Canadian wildfires moving through the New England area, low air quality warnings have been issued throughout the northeast states. While the smoke poses various risks to humans, it also has an effect on mosquito populations in the area.

How does the smoke in the air affect mosquitoes?

Smoke in the air reduces sunlight and lowers air temperatures, which can temporarily slow down mosquito activity. Mosquitoes are cold-blooded and thrive in warm, sunny conditions that increase their metabolism. With smoke present and air quality low, you will likely see fewer mosquitoes than normal.

Mosquitoes rely on sensory cues, like body heat and carbon dioxide, to locate hosts, but wildfire smoke can interfere with these systems, making them less effective at tracking people. As a result, mosquito activity may be lower during peak hours at dusk and dawn.

Will it have a long-term effect?

While poor air quality may influence mosquito activity, it will not have any significant effect on overall mosquito populations. Once the smoke clears and air quality improves, mosquito activity will return to normal

Low air quality, coupled with humid conditions, can lead to more standing water. Mosquitoes can lay their eggs in even the smallest pools of stagnant water, so mosquito populations will likely increase once the air quality returns to normal. The increase in standing water will provide more opportunities for mosquitoes to lay their eggs.

Smoke in the air can also affect the activity of insects and birds that prey on mosquitoes, resulting in fewer mosquitoes being killed through predation. In the long term, this could benefit mosquito populations and increase mosquito activity in the area. 

What should you do?

Despite the smoke in the air reducing mosquito activity, it is important to remain proactive with your mosquito control during this summer period. Take extra measures like wearing long-sleeved clothing, and remove any pools of standing water in your yard or around your property. 

Reduced air quality does not interfere with mosquitoes’ ability to transmit mosquito-borne illnesses like the West Nile Virus or Triple E, which are on the rise this season. To ensure your safety, schedule all-natural mosquito control to combat activity in your area. 

 

Sources:

CDC (April 16, 2024). Mosquito Control at Home. https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/mosquito-control/mosquito-control-at-home.html