Iceland just found its first mosquitoes
19 hours ago
- #Iceland
- #mosquitoes
- #climate change
- First confirmed discovery of mosquitoes in Iceland's wild, specifically the Culiseta annulata species.
- Mosquitoes found in Iceland due to potential climate change effects, though direct link is unclear.
- Discovery made by Björn Hjaltason in western Iceland, with three mosquitoes captured.
- Culiseta annulata is cold-adapted, capable of surviving harsh winters in sheltered locations.
- Uncertainty remains about how mosquitoes arrived in Iceland, with theories including transport via ships or containers.
- Climate change is expanding mosquito ranges globally, with rising temperatures aiding their growth and longevity.
- Iceland has experienced record heat, making conditions more favorable for species like mosquitoes.
- Experts caution against directly linking the mosquito discovery to climate change without further evidence.
- Potential for more mosquito species to establish in Iceland as temperatures rise.