Iceland is one of the most amazing countries on the planet. The small island’s fantastic nature, culture, and history set it apart. Someone who has already had the opportunity to visit our country may claim that it has everything. But did you know there are no mosquitoes in Iceland?
While Iceland has over 1300 insect species, no mosquito species have been discovered, except one preserved in the Natural History Museum, which was found in an airplane from Greenland in the 1980s.
The “No Mosquito” Country
What Other Bugs and Insects Can Be Found in Iceland?
Iceland is said to be the only country with no mosquitos or ticks. There are two theories as to why Iceland is devoid of mosquitoes. The most likely explanation is that the weather conditions are unfavorable to mosquitoes. Even though mosquitos can withstand temperatures as low as those of the Arctic winter, they cannot adapt to Icelandic weather. Three major freezes throughout the year make mosquito breeding impossible in any lake in Iceland. Before they reach sexual maturity, the cold returns, freezing the waters from which they must emerge.
Mosquitoes require specific conditions to reproduce. They can produce in a hot and humid environment and survive in a cold climate. On the other hand, the Icelandic climate is too volatile for them to survive.
Another theory is that the chemical composition of Iceland’s water and soil is unfavorable to mosquitoes. Global warming, on the other hand, is constantly causing climate change. This may affect the appearance of mosquitoes in Iceland. The average air temperature is rising, and new insect species have emerged in Iceland. Those who have not previously thrived there. In that case, mosquitoes may soon be able to breed in Iceland.
The Icelandic Institute of Natural History allows visitors to see a mosquito. It is kept in a jar and cannot be seen anywhere else in Iceland until the climate changes dramatically. (Source: Motor Home Iceland)
What Other Bugs and Insects Can Be Found in Iceland?
It is not entirely true that Iceland is devoid of bugs and insects. One species is particularly symbolic of Iceland. They are midges, and the lake was named after them. Midges are sometimes confused with mosquitos or flies. Midges are tiny flying insects that are native to Iceland. Lake Myvatn, one of Iceland’s most famous attractions, was named after midges. It refers to the midge lake. The lake is in an active volcanic area in Iceland’s northwestern region.
In Iceland, the most common types are Chironomidae, also known as lake midges, and Simuliidae, also known as black fly. The first type, lake midges, do not bite or sting, so do not be concerned. The only harm they cause is that they are incredibly irritating. They look like mosquitoes, which is why many tourists believe they saw mosquitoes in Myvatn.
Black flies, on the other hand, are more dangerous to you. They bite and drink human and animal blood. They cause dozens of small bites, which are difficult to manage. They can only be found in the summer in specific areas, usually near lakes where they breed. (Source: Motor Home Iceland)
Image from IndiaToday