Does the floodwater mosquito, Aedes vexans, prefer to breed in permanent ponds?

The floodwater mosquito, Aedes vexans, is known for its preference for breeding in temporary bodies of water rather than permanent ponds. This preference stems from the fact that Aedes vexans typically lays its eggs in areas that are prone to flooding, such as ditches, puddles, and even in the aftermath of heavy rain, where the water doesn't stay for long. Temporary water bodies provide the ideal conditions for their lifecycle, as these habitats can quickly fill with water, allowing for rapid egg hatching and larval development.

In contrast, breeding in permanent ponds is not favored since these areas tend not to experience the fluctuations in water levels that Aedes vexans thrive on. Permanent bodies of water may contain predators or compete with other mosquito species, which could affect the survival of their larvae. Hence, the choice indicating that Aedes vexans generally prefers temporary bodies of water accurately reflects its breeding habits.