A note from the Kumamoto International Entomology Desk: It’s mosquito season! - a mutual buffet, with them getting yummy hemoglobin and us being offered the smörgåsbord of West Nile, zika, or dengue. Have you ever wondered how mosquitoes are able to concentrate on your ankles?
Scientists have long known that mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide plumes humans emit, but recent studies have shown that, after zeroing in, they are additionally attracted to odors given off by the plethora of bacteria that live on human feet. (The Darwin Awards long ago went to those who flew directly into a swatting palm - and remember, it is only the females that bite - males mate and immediately move on to the Great Ankle in the Sky.)
Don’t think that being extra-hygienic with your tootsies will help: the hyper-sensitive receptors on mosquito antennae will foil even the most meticulous cleanliness and attempts to cover up with perfumes or mud layers. All that seems to work are chemicals that shut down these receptors such as those found in DEEP. Of course, remove standing water, wear leg warmers like you were Jennifer Beals (youngsters: Google it), or, if you’re particularly concerned, move to a desert.
Warning: The below graphic is … graphic. More info can be found at the link. - William
