Culex Genus of Mosquitoes

Culex Genus of Mosquitoes

Culex is a genus of mosquitoes which carries significant diseases of birds, humans and other animals. 

Geographic Region

Common West Nile and encephalitis vectors, House mosquitoes (C. pipiens and quinquefasciatus) are found in urban areas, while the encephalitis mosquito (C. tarsalis) prefers rural settings.

Natural Habitat

Overall, these mosquitoes prefer the tropics, but at least one or many species of Culex mosquito are found across North America and Hawaii.

Behavior

Culex mosquitoes typically bite in the evening and at night, and rest during the day.

Unique Characteristics

• Culex pipiens (common house mosquito or northern house mosquito)
• Culex tarsalis (encephalitis mosquito)
• Culex quinquefasciatus (southern house mosquito)