Mosquitoes Prefer Red and Black: Study Shows Clothing Colors Attract Vectors

A recent study published in *Nature Communications* examined how three disease‑carrying mosquito species – *Aedes aegypti*, *Anopheles stephensi* and *Culex quinquefasciatus* – respond to different fabric colors. Researchers released male mosquitoes into a flight tunnel with colored spots on the floor and observed their flight patterns. The insects were most attracted to wavelengths between 510 nm and 660 nm, corresponding to orange and red, with *Aedes aegypti* showing a strong preference for red followed by black. *Anopheles stephensi* also favored black and red, while *Culex quinquefasciatus* was drawn to violet shades. The experiments suggest that wearing red or black clothing may increase the likelihood of mosquito bites, a finding relevant for personal protection in regions where these vectors transmit diseases such as dengue, malaria and West Nile virus.

The study highlights the role of visual cues in mosquito host‑seeking behavior and underscores the importance of considering clothing color alongside other protective measures like repellents and screens.