I found what appears to be a gigantic mosquito. It is about 4 inches across. I live in Illinois. What in the world IS this?!?! YIKES! Thanks.
2006-09-29 03:25:48 · 4 answers · asked by ams7thgraders 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Zoology
You are probably looking at a crane fly (family Tipulidae):
http://www.treknature.com/gallery/North_America/Canada/photo1190.htm
Crane flies are closely related to mosquitoes (they are both of order Diptera and suborder Nematocera), however they are quite different organisms. For one thing, crane flies are obviously a lot larger.
Also, crane flies do not require a blood meal for egg development, unlike mosquitoes--in fact, adult crane flies often do not even have mouth parts, as the adult form is used purely for reproduction, with no time for eating. They are completely harmless, do not bite, and transmit no diseases.
2006-09-29 03:53:48 · answer #1 · answered by entoaggie 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Mosquitos aren't typically larger than 0.6 inches. But a lot of people think that a crane fly looks like a very large mosquito. It's maximum size in temperate areas is supposed to be 2 in, but that's still my best guess.
2006-09-29 03:36:14 · answer #2 · answered by DavidK93 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
there are some varieties of mosquito that get very large and they can carry diseases. I suggest you call pest control.
hope it helps and stay safe!
2006-09-29 03:34:31 · answer #3 · answered by isabel 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I do not believe they exist. Mutation in laboratory or a toy?
2006-09-29 03:29:07 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋