Mosquito-borne illnesses are a considerable burden on human and animal health, so understanding what influences the behavior or mosquitos could be useful. A recent study published in PLOS Genetics suggests that there may be a genetic component to mosquito behavioral preferences, including what they choose to bite.

The control of malaria depends on the propensity of mosquitoes to bite humans versus other hosts—if mosquitos prefer humans, then they’re more likely to spread diseases between humans, but if they prefer to feed on other animals (like cows, for example), then mosquitos may not be contributing as significantly to the human burden of disease. Additionally, control of malaria depends on the tendency of mosquitoes to rest in places where we can ensure they are likely to come into contact with insecticides. Mosquitoes are more likely to encounter insecticides indoors because homes in countries where malaria is endemic are more likely to have long-lasting, insecticide-treated nets, which will kill mosquitoes if they come into contact with them. These nets are highly affective and have pared down the number of dangerous mosquito species in many parts of Africa.

For this PLOS study, some researchers were interested in investigating the potential that the surviving mosquitos may have adapted their behavior to avoid control measures like nets. And, if this were occurring through evolution, it should have left a mark in the pests’ genomes. So they investigated the genetic basis for mosquito host and resting area choices.