If you look up the geographic range of mosquitoes, Iceland will not be at the top of the list! Whilst it is true that they have a worldwide distribution, there are exceptions to this, including Antarctica and a few islands with polar or subpolar climates. Iceland would have been one such island. However, the climate of our planet is changing, and animals are changing with it. Mosquitoes have now been spotted in Iceland! We explore how they got there and what it means.
Which Species of Mosquito Was Found in Iceland?
Two female and one male mosquito belonging to the species Culiseta annulata were found in Iceland. This was confirmed on 21st October in an article released by the Natural History Institute. It is the first confirmed time that the species has been found on the island. This species is usually associated with Europe and is also found in the UK and Nordic countries, so we know they can survive in cooler climates. The adults shelter in outbuildings and basements and emerge as temperatures rise again. This species does bite but does not carry any known infections.
Why Have There Been No Mosquitoes in Iceland?
Iceland’s landscape was not thought suitable for mosquitoes.
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Mosquitoes are ectothermic and typically become less active as temperatures drop. Some species are more cold-tolerant than others. However, according to the World Population Review, there have been no mosquitoes in Iceland for a number of reasons. Its seasonal temperatures and lack of vegetation were not thought conducive to insect life. Mosquitoes have not migrated there naturally before. Also, if they did get there, the lack of warmth and stagnant water was thought to be a barrier to breeding. The mosquito life cycle consists of four stages, three of which take place in water.
Where Were They Found?
The mosquitoes were spotted between 16th and 18th October on the Kiðafelli farm in Kjós, which is adjacent to Reykjavik in the southwest of the island. The insects were attracted to a ribbon soaked in red wine, which was being used to attract butterflies. They were collected by insect enthusiast Björn Hjaltason, who submitted them to be identified. No one knows exactly how they got to his farm! However, it is likely that they arrived with freight.
Could They Live in Iceland?
Only time will tell if these visitors can set up a permanent home in Iceland. The country experienced record-breaking heat this spring, which may have paved the way for insect species to establish populations. There are increasing reports of other insect sightings in Iceland as well. Iceland also saw its hottest ever May day this year, with temperatures reaching 79.8°F at Eglisstaðir Airport. This may be the opportunity that mosquitoes have been waiting for.
