Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of Common house mosquito wing (Culex spp.). Mosquito wings are covered with fine scales. These numerous sm
Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of Common house mosquito wing (Culex spp.). Mosquito wings are covered with fine scales. These numerous small scales are located along the veins and edges of the wings. They help to eliminate drag and improve flight efficiency. Mosquitoes have small wings that beat up to 600 times per second to produce the familiar whine we hear when they are near our ears. Culex species lay their eggs in the form of egg rafts that float in still or stagnant water. In the United States, West Nile virus is transmitted primarily by Culex pipiens mosquitoes. Culex spp. become infected by biting certain birds carrying the West Nile virus and in turn transmits the virus to humans where it can cause encephalitis and meningitis. Culex spp. are also disease vectors of western equine and Saint Louis encephalitis. In addition, Culex spp. are carriers of viral encephalitis and filariasis. Magnification: x60 when shortest axis printed
Size: 2646px × 3302px
Photo credit: © DENNIS KUNKEL MICROSCOPY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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