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Debunking a few common pest myths and more in this edition of the Pest Control Experts' newletter!
Inside this edition:
Featured service: Fire Ant Prevention.
Debunking pest myths
Creature feature - Aedes mosquito
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Debunking pest myths!
Myth 1: The average human being eats 7 spiders in their sleeping during a lifetime.
One of the most pervasive misconceptions surrounding human behavior during sleep is the widely circulated belief that individuals unintentionally ingest an average of seven spiders throughout their lifetime. This myth has captured the collective imagination, sparking a common fear of spiders crawling into one's mouth while asleep. However, it is crucial to emphasize that this assertion is entirely unsubstantiated and lacks any scientific credibility.
The notion of swallowing spiders during sleep likely originates from a blend of urban folklore and a misinterpretation of spider behavior. Spiders do not typically seek out the mouths of sleeping individuals, as they generally steer clear of human interaction. Moreover, the movements and exhalations associated with breathing serve as deterrents for spiders, further diminishing the chances of them entering a person's oral cavity.
While it is a fact that spiders may inadvertently wander into living spaces, the probability of them ending up in someone's mouth is exceedingly low. Spiders possess keen senses and are more inclined to find refuge in dark, secluded areas rather than approaching a potential threat like a human.
In short, no you don't swallow spiders while sleeping...probably.
Speaking of spiders, here's another common pest myth worth busting.
Myth 2: Daddy-longleg spiders are the most venomous spider but their mouth is too small to bite people.
I remember this one from the elementary school playground. Even at a young age, this one didn't seem logical. In reality, daddy-longlegs, also known as harvestmen, are not even true spiders. They belong to a different arachnid group called Opiliones. Despite their spider-like appearance, daddy-longlegs have distinct characteristics that set them apart from true spiders, such as having one body segment instead of two and lacking venom glands.
The claim that daddy-longleg spiders possess potent venom but are unable to bite humans due to their small mouths is also misleading. Daddy-longlegs do not have fangs or venom glands like true spiders, so they are not capable of injecting venom through a bite. Their mouthparts are designed for feeding on small insects, decaying plant matter, or fungi, rather than for biting and injecting venom into larger animals like humans.
Creature feature - Aedes mosquito
Aedes mosquitoes are a fascinating species known for their unique characteristics and behaviors. These mosquitoes are not your average insect; they possess distinct physical attributes that set them apart from other mosquito species. With their black and white striped legs and bodies, Aedes mosquitoes are easily recognizable, making them stand out in the insect world.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Aedes mosquitoes is their feeding habits. Unlike many other mosquito species that primarily feed at dawn and dusk, Aedes mosquitoes are known to be aggressive daytime feeders. This behavior makes them a significant nuisance to humans during the day, as they are more likely to bite when people are active and outdoors.
Furthermore, Aedes mosquitoes are vectors for several dangerous diseases, including dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya. These diseases can have severe health consequences for those infected, making the presence of Aedes mosquitoes a serious public health concern in many regions around the world.
Despite their small size, Aedes mosquitoes play a significant role in ecosystems as both predators and prey. They are an essential food source for many animals, including birds and fish, while also preying on smaller insects in their environment. This complex relationship highlights the interconnectedness of species in nature and the critical role that Aedes mosquitoes play in maintaining ecosystem balance.
In conclusion, Aedes mosquitoes are a unique and complex species with a range of fascinating characteristics and behaviors. From their distinctive appearance to their aggressive feeding habits and role as disease vectors, Aedes mosquitoes are a species worth studying and understanding to better protect human health and the environment.
If you've made it this far down the article, thanks!
T. Brian Lynch, Jr.
Founder & CEO
Pest Control Experts
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