Overview
- Three mosquitoes collected on October 16 in Kiðafell, Kjós, were confirmed by the Icelandic Institute of Natural History as the country’s first record of living mosquitoes.
- Entomologist Matthías Alfreðsson identified the insects as Culiseta annulata—two females and one male—after citizen scientist Björn Hjaltason submitted the specimens.
- Culiseta annulata is widespread in Europe and can survive cold by sheltering through winter in places such as basements and barns.
- Experts say the insects likely arrived recently, with shipping or containers suspected as possible pathways and local attention on the port of Grundartangi.
- Researchers note limited immediate health risk from this species and plan targeted surveillance in spring to check for overwintering and potential establishment as conditions warm.