ANIMAL CURIOSITIES

The reasons why mosquitoes bite you and not someone else

If you are one of those people who always seem to be the favourite target of these pesky insects, then this photo gallery might offer you some interesting answers.

Mosquitoes are blood-hungry creatures that are able to locate their prey through a combination of biological and behavioural factors. In this photogallery, we explore six surprising reasons why you might be the mosquitoes' preferred choice, reported by the Houston Methodist. 

Through informative insights, we will uncover genetic characteristics, scents, daily habits, and more to understand what makes mosquitoes attracted to you over someone else. Prepare to be amazed and gain greater awareness of this annoying phenomenon.

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The reasons why mosquitoes bite you and not someone else
If you are one of those people who always seem to be the favourite target of these pesky insects, then this photo gallery might offer you some interesting answers. Mosquitoes are blood-hungry creatures that are able to locate their prey through a combination of biological and behavioural factors. In this photogallery, we explore six surprising reasons why you might be the mosquitoes' preferred choice, reported by the Houston Methodist. Through informative insights, we will uncover genetic characteristics, scents, daily habits, and more to understand what makes mosquitoes attracted to you over someone else. Prepare to be amazed and gain greater awareness of this annoying phenomenon.
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Stature
During exhalation, the human being releases carbon dioxide: the greater the 'stature' of the person, the more carbon dioxide is released, which can make them more identifiable than people of smaller stature.
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Body temperature
Mosquitoes use their body heat to identify a possible target; for this reason, people with a higher body temperature are more likely to be identified as targets and therefore bitten.
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Sweat
Sweat, together with a rise in body temperature, is easily detectable by mosquitoes, which are attracted to the lactic acid and ammonia found in it. Consequently, sweating a lot makes it more easily detectable by mosquitoes.
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Pregnancy
Pregnant women may be more attractive to mosquitoes because they exhale more carbon dioxide (some studies suggest at least 20% more), but also because their body temperature is higher during pregnancy.
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Bacteria
Bacteria found on the skin produce body odour, which is known to be attractive to mosquitoes. According to one study, having a lower bacterial diversity within the skin microbiota may make a higher bacterial diversity less attractive to mosquitoes.
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Diet
Diet influences body odour: what you eat and what you drink produces a chemical reaction that turns into an odour that attracts these insects to a greater or lesser extent. What one eats can also affect body temperature and sweating, which as we have seen are attractive factors. According to some studies, the consumption of alcohol, particularly beer, can increase your attractiveness to mosquitoes.
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