Cracking the Code: Understanding What Attracts Mosquitoes to Humans

Scientists have identified the different chemicals in body odor that attract mosquitoes by building an ice-rink size testing arena and pumping in the scents of different people. The researchers found that mosquitoes are most attracted to airborne carboxylic acids, including butyric acid, a compound present in "stinky" cheeses such as Limburger. These carboxylic acids are produced by bacteria on human skin and tend not to be noticeable to us. The mosquitoes were also deterred by another chemical called eucalyptol, which is present in plants. The research could lead to the development of lures or repellents that can be used in traps to disrupt the host-seeking behavior of mosquitoes, thereby controlling malaria vectors in regions where the disease is endemic.