While many people view mosquitoes as nothing more than pesky, blood-sucking insects, a former college biology lecturer is challenging that narrative—and he’s doing it with facts.
In a now-viral thread, X user @UnkleAyo (S.A.L.A.K.O), who taught biology for six years, broke down the critical role mosquitoes play in nature. According to him, mosquitoes are not just nuisances — they’re essential pollinators and food sources that support the entire food chain.
“Alongside bees and butterflies, mosquitoes are one of the most influential pollinators because their males feed on nectar,” he wrote. “They transfer pollen grains from flower to flower, enabling reproduction. Putting mosquitoes at risk means plants would be at risk — and by extension, herbivores.”
He added that the ripple effect of wiping out mosquitoes would affect not just plants and herbivores, but carnivores and omnivores as well.
S.A.L.A.K.O also pointed out that mosquito larvae — which develop in water — are a primary food source for many fish species. So, fewer mosquitoes could mean a disruption in aquatic ecosystems too.
“More than 3,000 species of mosquitoes want nothing to do with humans,” he clarified. “They just want to suck nectar, pick up pollen grains in that exercise, and balance out the ecosystem.”
He concluded with a strong message, reminding people that nature works in balance, and every species plays its part:
“The only time the female mosquito sucks blood is when she lays eggs & she needs to replenish protein levels — the male mosquito never sucks blood.
When next you think you’re more deserving of life than mosquitoes, remember — we are because they are. UBUNTU.”
View the rest of the tweets below…
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