What is the life cycle stage of mosquitoes that typically lasts the longest?

The longest-lasting life cycle stage of mosquitoes is the larval stage. During this stage, mosquitoes undergo significant growth and development while primarily inhabiting aquatic environments. The duration of the larval stage can vary based on environmental factors such as temperature, food availability, and water quality, but it generally lasts longer than the other stages.

In comparison, the egg stage is relatively brief, as eggs typically hatch into larvae within days to weeks, depending on the species and environmental conditions. The pupal stage is a transitional phase that lasts only a few days as the larvae transform into adults. The adult stage, while it can last from weeks to months, is not as prolonged as the larval stage, which is crucial for the mosquito's growth and development before becoming a fully mature adult. Thus, the larval stage is characterized by extended periods of growth and development, making it the longest stage in the life cycle of mosquitoes.