Scientists explain why some people attract more mosquito bites?

Imagine spending a summer evening outdoors with friends or family. When you return home, you find mosquito bites all over the exposed parts of your body while others seem to have escaped without a single bite. Many people have experienced this and scientists say it is not simply a matter of bad luck.

Extensive research has shown that mosquitoes use a surprisingly sophisticated method when choosing their targets for blood meals. They rely on a combination of smell, body chemistry and vision to identify potential hosts.

Carbon Dioxide is first clue

According to a recent study published in the journal Nature, mosquitoes initially locate people by detecting carbon dioxide (CO₂). Every person exhales carbon dioxide with each breath making it an important signal for mosquitoes.

Once mosquitoes detect CO₂ and move closer, a person’s unique body odour becomes a key factor in determining whether they will become a target. Researchers have identified dozens of skin-related chemicals that influence mosquito behaviour. One particularly important compound is 1-octen-3-ol. This substance is produced from skin oils and is highly attractive to mosquitoes.

Your body odour matters more than your blood type

For many years, blood type was believed to be the main reason some people attract more mosquitoes than others. Some studies suggested that people with blood group O were bitten more frequently. However, scientists now believe that body odour plays a much more significant role than blood type.

They explain that bacteria living on human skin produce chemical compounds that vary from person to person. As a result, some individuals naturally emit scents that make them more attractive to mosquitoes and genetics also influence this process.

A previous study conducted by Rockefeller University found that people with higher levels of carboxylic acids on their skin tend to attract more mosquitoes.

Who attracts more mosquitoes?

Recent research suggests that the following groups may be more attractive to mosquitoes because they produce more carbon dioxide:

• Pregnant women
• People with obesity
• Physically active individuals

Higher carbon dioxide output makes it easier for mosquitoes to locate them. Body heat also helps mosquitoes identify and track potential hosts after detecting carbon dioxide.

Does clothing make difference?

Research indicates that the answer is yes. Once mosquitoes detect carbon dioxide, they can more easily spot people wearing dark colours such as:

• Black
• Navy blue
• Red

In contrast, lighter colours such as:

• White
• Green

are generally less attractive and less visible to mosquitoes.

Key takeaway

Scientists believe that mosquitoes choose their targets based mainly on carbon dioxide emissions, body odour, skin chemistry, body heat and even clothing colour. While blood type may have some influence, your unique scent and the chemicals produced by your skin appear to be much more important factors in determining whether mosquitoes find you irresistible.