Melas Malaria Mosquito vs Comstock's Net-Winged Midge
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Melas Malaria Mosquito | Comstock's Net-Winged Midge |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Anopheles melas | Agathon comstocki |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Culicidae | Blephariceridae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 5-8 mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | West African coast, from Senegal to Angola | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Melas Malaria Mosquito
The West African saltwater-breeding member of the Anopheles gambiae complex, breeding in mangrove swamps and brackish lagoons. It is a secondary malaria vector in coastal West Africa. Its high biting rate partially compensates for its lower vector competence compared to A. gambiae.
Did You Know?
Despite being less efficient at transmitting malaria than A. gambiae, its abundance in coastal areas makes it a significant local vector.
Comstock's Net-Winged Midge
A western North American net-winged midge found on waterfall-splashed rocks. Larvae have a unique caterpillar-like body with sucker discs.
Did You Know?
Larvae inch forward using alternating suction attachment, moving like a caterpillar across wet rock faces.