Mosquitoes are known to be attracted to certain colors more than others. There has been some debate over whether mosquitoes dislike and avoid lighter colors versus darker colors. Understanding mosquito color preference can help guide choices in clothing color and other methods of deterring mosquitoes.
Quick Answer
The quick answer is that mosquitoes are generally more attracted to darker colors like black, red, and navy blue. Lighter shades like khaki, green, and light blue are less attractive to mosquitoes. Bright whites and yellows are also less appealing to these insects.
How Mosquitoes See Color
Mosquitoes do not see color the same way humans do. They have receptors in their eyes that detect specific wavelengths of light. Mosquitoes are particularly sensitive to red, orange, black, and cyan. They are drawn to darker colors in the red to blue range.
On the other hand, mosquitoes are less reactive to colors in the green, purple, and UV spectrums. Lighter shades of green, tan, and pink are less visible and less attractive to them.
Factors Beyond Color
While color is one factor that impacts mosquito attraction, there are other elements to consider as well. Mosquitoes also use smell to locate hosts. The more CO2 emitted from breathing, the more enticing the target. Larger individuals tend to attract more mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are also drawn to sweat, perfumes, scented lotions, and fragrant soaps. Dark clothing may stand out visually, but lighter garments can still attract mosquitoes through scent.
Time of day also plays a role. Mosquitoes tend to be most active at dawn and dusk when vision is lower. This makes them less reliant on visual cues. During peak hours, they will target any discernible host. Mosquito species have different color preferences and feeding habits impacting attraction.
Research on Mosquito Color Preference
A number of studies have tried to definitively determine mosquito color preference through experimentation. Here are some of the findings:
- A 2016 study tested mosquito attraction response to different coloredsocks worn by human subjects. The socks were saturated with a synthetic odor to control for smell variables. Dark socks in black, navy, and red attracted the most mosquitoes. Lighter green and yellow socks attracted far fewer mosquitoes.
- Researchers in Burkina Faso Africa compared mosquito landings on cloth treated with human sweat and laid out in different colors. Black, cyan, and red attracted the most mosquitoes, while green, light blue, and white saw very few landings.
- Scientists in Alaska tested specially treated dark and light socks worn by subjects. Overall, darker socks attracted 1.5 times as many mosquitoes as the lighter socks.
These studies point to darker colors eliciting increased mosquito activity compared to lighter shades.
Recommended Clothing Colors
Based on current evidence, below are clothing color recommendations to avoid mosquito bites:
| Color | Level of Attraction |
|---|---|
| Khaki | Low |
| Light blue | Low |
| Orange | Moderate |
| Olive green | Low |
| Red | High |
| White | Low |
| Yellow | Low |
| Navy blue | High |
| Black | High |
Khaki, light blue, olive green, white, and yellow are ideal choices. Red, navy blue, and black should be avoided when possible to reduce mosquito attention.
Other Color Considerations
Keep in mind that very dark or bright shades of any color are more attractive than lighter, duller shades. Soft pink, light lavender, and pale yellow are safer than bold red, royal purple, or neon yellow.
Mosquitoes see solid blocks of color more easily than patterns and prints. Choose plaid, striped, checkered, or other multi-colored designs over solid color clothing.
Fabric also impacts attraction, with looser weaves and cottons drawing less interest than tighter synthetics. Loose long sleeves and pants provide a physical barrier despite color.
Conclusion
Mosquitoes generally demonstrate a preference for darker clothing colors like black, navy blue, and red. Lighter shades of green, khaki, light blue, and yellow are less attractive to them. However, odor, activity level, fabrics, and weather conditions also influence mosquito behavior. While color can make a difference, it is not the only determining factor. Wearing loose light-colored clothing, avoiding scented products, and using repellents will provide the best protection from mosquitoes.