Which mosquito species is known for obtaining oxygen through the roots of plants?

Coquillettidia perturbans is unique among mosquito species for its ability to obtain oxygen through the roots of aquatic plants. This adaptation allows the larvae of this species to thrive in environments where dissolved oxygen levels may be low or where water is stagnant. Unlike most mosquito larvae, which rely on the oxygen available in the water and obtain it from the surface, Coquillettidia larvae utilize a specialized structure called a siphon that can access air from plant roots submerged in the water.

This characteristic is particularly advantageous in certain habitats, enabling Coquillettidia perturbans to occupy ecological niches that would otherwise be inhospitable to other mosquito species. Their distinct respiration method significantly contributes to their survival and distribution in various aquatic environments, setting them apart from the other listed mosquito species.