Common Gnat vs Asian Tiger Mosquito

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Gnat Asian Tiger Mosquito
Scientific Name Culex modestus Aedes albopictus
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Culicidae Culicidae
Size 4-5 mm 4-7 mm
Habitat Farmland Woodlands
Diet Blood Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Europe, Central Asia, North Africa Southeast Asia, Americas, Europe, Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Gnat

A small brownish mosquito widespread across Europe and Central Asia that breeds in marshes and rice paddies. It is a competent vector of West Nile virus and is considered the species responsible for several West Nile virus outbreaks in Europe. It feeds readily on both birds and mammals.

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Did You Know?

This species was identified as the key West Nile virus vector in the Camargue wetlands of southern France.

Asian Tiger Mosquito

A striking black mosquito with a single white stripe down the thorax and banded legs. It is a highly invasive species spreading rapidly worldwide.

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Did You Know?

It spread globally through the used tire trade, breeding in water collected inside tires.