Which statement about Ochlerotatus taeniorhynchus is true?

• A. It is a small tropical mosquito; bites at noon.
• B. Small dark salt marsh mosquito; white bands on proboscis/legs; persistent biter; strong flier; breeds in salt marsh and nearby freshwater; larvae in dense balls; multiple generations; major salt marsh pest; vector: dog heartworm.
• C. Non-biting.
• D. Bred only in freshwater lakes.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is recognizing the distinct characteristics and habitat of Ochlerotatus taeniorhynchus to identify it correctly and understand its role as a pest and disease vector. This mosquito is a small, dark species that is strongly associated with salt marsh environments. A key identifying feature is white bands on the proboscis and on the legs. It is known as a persistent biter and a strong flyer, often moving from marshes into nearby areas.

Its breeding occurs in salt marshes and in adjacent freshwater, not just in freshwater lakes, and the larvae are often seen at the surface in dense rafts or balls. This species can have multiple generations in a season and is regarded as a major salt marsh pest. Importantly, it is a vector for dog heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis, meaning it can transmit the parasite to dogs when feeding.

The other statements don’t fit this species: it is not non-biting, it does bite, and its habitat and breeding aren’t limited to freshwater lakes or to tropical regions or daytime biting.