Which Blood Type Do Mosquitoes Like?

Mosquitoes are most attracted to Type O blood.

Mosquitoes and Blood Type Preference

A significant portion of the population, more than one in three Americans, has Type O positive blood. Interestingly, mosquitoes seem to have a preference for this blood type. Here’s what the research indicates:

• Study Findings: A 2019 study published in the American Journal of Entomology investigated mosquito feeding preferences by offering them feeders containing all four blood types.
• Type O Preference: The study found that mosquitoes chose the Type O blood feeder more frequently than any other blood type.

Why Type O?

While the exact reasons for this preference are still being researched, the study confirms that mosquitoes are not indiscriminate in their blood type selection. This preference might be due to the different chemical signals emitted by different blood types, although more research is necessary to understand the underlying factors.

Practical Implications

Knowing that mosquitoes prefer Type O blood does not mean people with other blood types are completely safe from bites. However, it might explain why some people feel like they are bitten more frequently than others. Here are some points to consider:

• No Complete Immunity: While mosquitoes prefer Type O, they will still bite individuals with other blood types.
• Other Factors: Other factors also influence mosquito attraction, including body odor, exhaled carbon dioxide, and skin temperature.
• Personal Protection: Regardless of blood type, using mosquito repellents and wearing protective clothing is essential.

Summary of Mosquito Blood Type Preference