Non-native mosquito species profiles
Basic profile of the different species of mosquitos that are invasive to the UK.
Applies to England
Non-native species profiles
Aedes albopictus (tiger mosquito)
The Aedes albopictus, or tiger mosquito, is common in Europe. It has not yet settled in the UK, but its eggs have been found in the Southeast, first detected as part of Invasive Mosquito Surveillance in 2016.
This small black-and-white mosquito is easy to recognize. It bites people in the day unlike most British mosquito species and is a vector for diseases like dengue and chikungunya.
Tiger mosquitoes live near people and lay their eggs in small pools of water. They often use containers such as buckets, old tyres, litter, clogged gutters, drains, and unused paddling pools. Unlike some other mosquitoes, their larvae do not grow in natural places like ponds or wetlands. They prefer cities and towns.
Notable features include:
- small size (7 to 8 mm)
- black body with a white stripe on its back
- plain wings with no markings
Aedes aegypti (yellow fever mosquito)
Aedes aegypti is one of the most common mosquito species in the world. It can spread several dangerous viruses, including Zika, yellow fever, dengue, and chikungunya.
This mosquito has adapted to living in cities and towns. It lays its eggs in artificial water containers like vases, water tanks, and old tires, which are often found near people’s homes. It can also use underground water sources, such as septic tanks.
Unlike Aedes albopictus, Aedes aegypti cannot survive in colder climates. The winters in the UK are too harsh for it, so it is unlikely to establish permanent populations in the near future.
Notable features include:
- medium-sized (10 to 15 mm)
- a black body with white markings on its legs and a white ‘lyre’ or ‘backward C’ shape on the back of its thorax
- a distinct, white pattern on the legs and the thorax
Aedes japonicus
Aedes japonicus is now a significant invasive mosquito species in Europe. It has spread mainly because of commercial activities, like the international trade in used tyres. Its presence is increasing in central Europe.
Originally from Japan and Korea, there are concerns that Aedes japonicus may help spread pathogens like West Nile virus.
This mosquito is well-suited to living in cities. The female mosquitoes are active during the day, which makes them a common pest.
Aedes japonicus can produce eggs that are resistant to freezing and drying out. These eggs can stay dormant throughout the winter and hatch in the spring when conditions are right. This ability to survive in tough conditions makes it easier for the mosquito to spread, especially in containers that have been moved from place to place.
Recent research in Germany found mosquito larvae in various containers like flower vases, saucers under flowerpots, watering cans, and paddling pools.
Notable features include:
- medium-sized (about 7 to 10 mm)
- a dark body with white markings on the legs and a white band on the thorax
Main resources for non-native mosquitoes:
- Invasive mosquito surveillance
- Native mosquitoes species profiles
- National contingency plan for invasive mosquito
Additional resources: