What is the first stage in a mosquito's life cycle following an egg?

The first stage in a mosquito's life cycle after the egg is the larval stage. When eggs hatch, they release larvae, which are aquatic and primarily feed on organic matter and microorganisms in the water. This stage is critical for growth and development, as larvae undergo a series of molts, generally referred to as instars, before they transition to the next stage of their life cycle, which is the pupal stage.

Understanding the importance of the larval stage helps in mosquito control strategies, as targeting larvae in their aquatic habitat can significantly reduce mosquito populations before they reach adulthood and become more difficult to manage. This also highlights the role of water bodies in mosquito life cycles, underlining the need for effective management practices in these environments.