First-ever mosquitoes found in Iceland, ending its mosquito-free record
Story by Susan Mbamah
For the first time in recorded history, researchers have confirmed the presence of mosquitoes in Iceland — one of the last few places on Earth previously believed to be completely mosquito-free.
Entomologist Matthias Alfredsson of the Natural Science Institute of Iceland revealed that three specimens of Culiseta annulata — two females and one male — were recently collected about 30 kilometres north of Reykjavik.
“They were all captured from wine ropes used to attract moths,” Alfredsson told AFP, explaining that the method involves suspending ropes soaked in heated, sugary wine outdoors to lure insects.
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Until now, Iceland had shared its mosquito-free status only with Antarctica, with no evidence of native mosquito populations. “This is the first record of mosquitoes occurring in the natural environment in Iceland,” Alfredsson confirmed.
He recalled a previous case in which a single Aedes nigripes mosquito — an Arctic species — was found on an airplane at Keflavik Airport years ago. However, that specimen was lost before further study could be conducted.
Alfredsson suggested that the recently discovered mosquitoes may have been introduced through international trade or tourism, possibly arriving “via ships or containers.” He cautioned, however, that further research will be needed to determine whether the insects can survive Iceland’s extreme winters.
“Further monitoring in the spring will be necessary to see if they’ve established a stable population,” he said.
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The Culiseta annulata species is known for its tolerance to cold and its ability to endure freezing conditions. Alfredsson noted that the insect’s adaptability and diverse breeding habitats could help it survive in Iceland’s challenging environment.
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