Iceland has long been the only mosquito-free country in the world, but scientists warn that as the climate changes, the blood-sucking insects could invade here, creating new environmental challenges.
According to emeritus professor at the University of Iceland Gisli Már Gislason, mosquitoes can even enter the country on airplanes and survive on the landing gear in subzero temperatures. However, Iceland’s harsh climate, with long winters and repeated cycles of freezing and thawing of water bodies, prevents the development of eggs and larvae, preventing the formation of full-fledged insect populations.
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant fresh water, but in Iceland, only geothermal springs remain unfrozen in winter. Their temperature is too high for larvae adapted to cold regions, making the natural environment extremely unfavorable for mosquitoes.
Scientists warn that the situation may change as the climate warms. Warmer springs and autumns will create long periods of unfrozen water, allowing mosquitoes to breed and establish themselves in Iceland. A similar situation has already happened with Hawaii: until 1826, the islands were also free of mosquitoes, but then the insects penetrated there too.
The change in Iceland’s status as a mosquito-free country will be a new challenge for the environment and public health, the researchers emphasize.
