What is the larval stage of a mosquito?
The larval stage is the second step in the mosquito life cycle. This is a stage of feeding and growth and takes place in standing water. Larvae feed on suspended organic material and a variety of small aquatic organisms. The larvae are often referred to as “wrigglers” because of the way they move. Some species live at the water surface, breathing through a specialized body part called a siphon. Others surface occasionally and a few remain submerged throughout the larval stage. Since controlling larvae prevents the occurrence of adults, the larval stage is often targeted by mosquito management programs.
