Culicidae
Culicidae
Culicidae (pronounced: koo-lee-see-dee) is a family of insects in the order Diptera. The term is derived from the Latin culicis, meaning "gnat" or "midges".
Etymology
The term Culicidae is derived from the Latin culicis, which translates to "gnat" or "midges". This is a reference to the small size and biting habits of these insects.
Description
Members of the Culicidae family are commonly known as mosquitoes. They are small, midge-like flies that constitute the family Culicidae. Females of most species are ectoparasites, whose tube-like mouthparts (called a proboscis) pierce the hosts' skin to consume blood.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Culicidae consists of the egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Eggs are laid on the water surface; they hatch into motile larvae that feed on aquatic algae and organic material.
Classification
The family Culicidae belongs to the order Diptera and is divided into two subfamilies: Anophelinae and Culicinae. These are further divided into several genera, including Anopheles, Culex, and Aedes, among others.
Medical Importance
Culicidae, particularly the genera Anopheles, Culex, and Aedes, are of great medical importance as they are vectors for many serious diseases. These include malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, and Zika virus, among others.
Related Terms
- Diptera: The order of insects to which Culicidae belongs.
- Mosquito: The common name for members of the Culicidae family.
- Proboscis: The tube-like mouthparts of mosquitoes.
- Anopheles, Culex, Aedes: Genera within the Culicidae family.
- Malaria, Dengue Fever, Yellow Fever, Zika Virus: Diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Culicidae
- Wikipedia's article - Culicidae
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