Sprinkler Magician
March 9, 2022
If you don’t seem to get bit by mosquitoes very often, you probably have that one friend who attracts them like moths to light. But can it be because of blood type? If so, what blood type do mosquitoes prefer?
Below, we answer these questions and break down some other things that attract them.
What Blood Type Do Mosquitoes Prefer?
Believe it or not, mosquitoes do prefer a specific blood type. A 2004 study found that mosquitoes go for individuals with O-type blood more than other blood types.
Why Do Mosquitoes Prefer Certain Blood Types?
It’s not clear why mosquitoes prefer certain blood types over others.;
The original theory was that certain blood types might be more beneficial for reproducing female mosquitoes. However, this study in the American Journal of Entomology found this untrue.
What Attracts Mosquitoes Besides Blood Type?
Mosquitoes are masters at tracking down food sources. Many things attract mosquitoes to you. Some of these are simply out of your hands, but there are a few you can control.;
Colors
Mosquitoes love dark clothing such as navy and black. It’s believed this is because it creates a noticeable contrast with the light your skin reflects.
They live primarily off plant nectar obtained from bright-colored flowers. Because of this, mosquitoes have a natural bias towards reds and oranges. Those color ranges are what your skin reflects – no matter your pigmentation.;
There are a few ways you can mosquito-proof your clothes:;
- We recommend covering as much skin as possible to try and camouflage yourself from the pesky insects
- Be wary of the colors you choose. Try to avoid bright colors that resemble flowers – specifically reds and oranges.;
- Wear loose-fitting clothes. Baggy clothes prevent mosquitoes from being able to reach your skin.
Smells
Mosquitoes are attracted to the smell of our sweat. This has been known for decades, but we just recently found out how they smell us.
In 2019, a research team discovered a unique receptor coined “Ionotropic Receptor 8a”. It sounds more like an intergalactic weapon than something on a mosquito, but that’s how they can smell us.
There are many myths that you can eat and drink things like garlic and apple cider vinegar to change your scent enough to protect you from mosquitoes. Little research has been done to get to the bottom of these claims, but they probably won’t be enough to keep mosquitoes away from you.
Breath
Your breath is one of the main ways mosquitoes can find you. They are attracted to almost every component of it, including the CO2, water vapor, and heat we exhale. Mosquitoes usually find us as a result of the CO2 we produce.
Moisture
If the air is too dry, mosquitoes will dry out and die. Because of their need for moisture, they tend to hang out in humid areas to stay healthy and prosper.
Heat
Mosquitoes are cold-blooded, so they rely on ambient air temperature to stay warm. They prefer temperatures around 80 degrees and above and can’t function below 50 degrees. This means that your home could be a haven for them during winter.
Alcohol
Not all alcohol is the same, especially when it comes to mosquitoes. While isopropyl alcohol can deter and kill mosquitoes, ethyl alcohol attracts them. So drinking alcoholic beverages can make you more enticing to mosquitoes when you sweat.
Pregnancy
As if hormonal imbalances, cramps, and back pain weren’t enough to deal with, now you have to worry about fighting off more mosquitoes. There are several reasons why mosquitoes might be more attracted to pregnant women, including:
- Increased breathing rate (More CO2 expelled)
- A stronger scent from hormones
- Increased sweat production from carrying around more weight
Repel Mosquitoes for GOOD With Mosquito Magician
If you want to enjoy cookouts or playing with your kids in the yard without worrying about getting bit by mosquitoes, check out our mosquito solution. It’s essential oil based and highly effective, regardless of your blood type!