Scientists Identify 27 Odor Compounds That Draw Mosquitoes, Including 1-Octen-3-ol
Updated
Updated · ScienceAlert · Jun 17
Scientists Identify 27 Odor Compounds That Draw Mosquitoes, Including 1-Octen-3-ol
3 articles · Updated · ScienceAlert · Jun 17
Summary
A recent lab study found Aedes aegypti mosquitoes detect 27 human odor compounds, with even small increases in 1-octen-3-ol sharply boosting attraction to some people.
42 women took part in the experiment, and those mosquitoes preferred—including some in their second trimester of pregnancy—produced more of the sebum breakdown chemical known as mushroom alcohol.
Carbon dioxide remains the first long-range trigger from dozens of meters away, while body odor becomes important within about 10 meters and heat and humidity matter at close range.
Scientists said common beliefs about blood type or skin, eye and hair color lack evidence, while beer has been linked to higher attractiveness; a 2023 Netherlands study found drinkers were 1.35 times more attractive.
The findings matter more as climate change expands mosquito ranges, with vectors such as the tiger mosquito moving into new areas and chikungunya reaching France's Alsace region last year.