A recent study conducted at the University of California, Santa Barbara, shows that mosquitoes are significantly more effective at finding humans to bite when they can detect a combination of body heat, carbon dioxide, and human scent. The research revealed that these elements together double the insects’ effectiveness in locating people, emphasizing the previously underdocumented importance of body heat in how mosquitoes track their targets.
In the laboratory, researchers exposed female mosquitoes to environments infused with human odors and carbon dioxide. Additionally, one of these environments included infrared radiation mimicking human skin temperature. The findings indicated that the infrared heat substantially boosted the mosquitoes’ attraction, but only when it was combined with other cues like CO2 and human scent.
Further investigations have discovered that mosquitoes possess heat-sensing neurons at the tips of their antennae. Blocking a specific temperature-sensitive protein known as TPRA1 can disable their heat detection capability. These insights pave the way for developing more effective mosquito traps and demonstrate the benefits of wearing loose clothing as a deterrent against bites. Additionally, using natural repellents, eliminating standing water, and planting mosquito-repellent plants like marigolds can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito bites. Understanding these mechanisms enhances strategies to combat the spread of mosquito-borne diseases, which remains a significant global health issue.
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Source: Original Article
Publish Date: 2024-08-27 12:20:51