Iceland has found its first mosquitoes

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Iceland has discovered its first mosquitoes, raising questions about their arrival in a climate previously hostile to such insects. Climate change is being cited as a potential factor, though the identified species is not considered a significant health risk. The discussion highlights the growing concern over biting midges, which have been present in Iceland for about a decade. Additionally, there are references to a mosquito species that has adapted to live in the London underground, showcasing the adaptability of insects. Overall, while the presence of mosquitoes in Iceland is notable, it does not pose a major threat to human health.
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How did they get there?
 
martinbn said:
How did they get there?
I think thats the major question, climate change is already being blamed, but the climate and flora of Iceland is particularly hostile to mosquitoes, despite warming of a few degrees. like many insects they are of course "frequent fliers". The species identified does appear to be quite hardy, but it doesn't represent a significant risk to human health. However not to worry, you can still be eaten alive by the growing biting midge population, apparently introduced around 10 years ago.
 
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Yesterday I read about a species of mosquito that evolved to live in the London underground (subway).
It is derived from a much more common European mosquito species. It may have evolved to live in caves before finding the underground.
 
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It's remarkable how adaptable mosquitoes can be when conditions shift, even slightly. Iceland has always seemed like one of the last safe zones.
 

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