Why Mosquitoes Bite Some People & Not Others

Why are there many people standing together, but the “mosquito” is biting alone? Reveals why mosquitoes choose certain people in particular

Have you ever? Standing with friends in groups But in the end, it was only us who were completely bitten by mosquitoes. While others didn’t get hit at all. Many people may wonder. Mosquitoes choose their prey. Is it true? The answer is true! And there are scientific reasons why mosquitoes like some people more than others.

mosquito Can fly at a speed of approximately 8 kilometers per hour. Even at a distance of about 10 meters from humans, they can still sense our presence. body heat carbon dioxide Including odors from lactic acid and fatty acids. that we release coupled with vision that is sensitive to movement Makes mosquitoes aim directly towards their prey with precision.

especially female mosquito that must suck the blood of humans or animals in order to use protein to make eggs male mosquito They will only eat nectar from flower pollen. However, the amount of blood that female mosquitoes can suck is It may weigh almost as much as its own weight.

Reasons why mosquitoes choose certain people in particular

1. Body odor and sweat is the main factor that mosquitoes use to choose their prey.

Research has found that Mosquitoes are attracted to certain chemicals that come out of the body, such as: Lactic acid and Ammonia This is usually caused by sweating. People who exercise often sweat easily Or have a high skin temperature, so they are often targeted by mosquitoes without realizing it.

2. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is highly attractive to mosquitoes.

Every time we exhale The body will also release carbon dioxide. Mosquitoes can detect this gas from up to 50 meters away. People with a high metabolism such as large people and pregnant women. Or people who exert a lot of energy release more CO₂, and that makes mosquitoes more likely to bite first.

3. Skin odor and natural bacteria

Each person’s skin has Skin bacteria (Skin microbiota) different which directly affects body odor Some scents are especially pleasing to mosquitoes, such as the smell of certain fatty acids. Mosquitoes are very sensitive to this smell. So he chose to fly to the person who had the said smell before anyone else.

4. Clothes and colors worn

Mosquitoes tend to like dark colors, such as Black, dark blue, brown Because it can be seen clearly in dim light People who wear dark clothing are more likely to be bitten than people who wear light colors, such as white or cream.

5. Alcohol and certain foods

There is research from Japan indicating that People who drink beer or certain alcoholic beverages are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes. This is because the body releases odor through sweat and breath. At the same time, foods that are sweet or high in sugar may also stimulate the body to secrete more substances that mosquitoes like.

6. Genetics also play a part!

Scientists have found that genetic factors affect body odor and sweat composition. This is one reason why some people are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes than others. Even in the same environment

How to reduce the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes

• Avoid wearing dark clothes.
• Use mosquito repellent lotion or spray. Especially those containing DEET or eucalyptus.
• Take a shower immediately after exercising. To remove sweat and odors that attract mosquitoes
• Avoid being near areas with standing water. which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes

summarize Mosquitoes do not bite everyone equally, because there are strong “biological reasons” for choosing their victims. People with a unique body odor sweat easily or release a lot of carbon dioxide will be the top target of mosquitoes, so if you don’t want to be the next victim You should take care of your hygiene and use mosquito repellent products regularly.

Reference information

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
2. Nature Scientific Reports