What is a defining characteristic of Aedes mosquitoes?

A defining characteristic of Aedes mosquitoes is that they are primarily active during the day. This diurnal behavior differentiates them from many other mosquito species that tend to be more active at dusk and dawn or during the night. The daytime activity increases their chances of biting humans and transmitting diseases like dengue, Zika virus, and chikungunya, which are associated with these mosquitoes.

In contrast to the other characteristics listed, Aedes mosquitoes do not primarily breed in natural water bodies; instead, they typically prefer smaller, artificial containers of standing water, such as flower pots, discarded tires, and bird baths. While some species of Aedes can have distinctive size and coloration, they are not universally large and black with white markings, as these features can vary among different species. Additionally, the larval stage of Aedes mosquitoes does possess a tail, which is a common characteristic of mosquito larvae in general.