Spring and summer are the seasons of the year that are already marked by higher temperatures, which gives rise to a greater number of mosquitoes, including Aedes Aegypti. Therefore, to avoid the bites of these animals, the researchers studied the influence of colors on the insects' preference. The results are impressive.
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In addition to general prevention to fight the dengue mosquito, how to use repellents and avoid accumulation of standing water, Jeff Riffell – researcher who conducted the study – states that using certain colors of clothing also contributes to bringing or repelling insects from the skin. In the following list, you can find out more information about what their favorite shades are.
Colors that trigger mosquitoes
- cyan
The color that is between blue and green is one of the favorites of the Aedes Aegypti. According to the researcher, the mosquito flew straight towards the piece of that color when it was presented to it.
- Orange
This one has a great wavelength, something insects seem to love.
- Black
Insects, in general, are attracted to dark colors, so black is one of the favorites. This is largely due to heat absorption, something mosquitoes really love.
- Red
Our skin emits a reddish tone, which in itself already attracts them. In all shades, they seemed even more obsessed with this shade.
Colors that ward off mosquitoes
The results of the studies carried out by the researchers indicate that they do not like the traditional blue, white, green and violet colors. Although it is still not possible to state why the simple use of clothes in these shades can prevent mosquito bites, the research findings are promising in this regard.
- Blue
To reflect heat and repel insects, the ideal is to use light shades. Darker colors, like navy blue, end up attracting mosquitoes by retaining heat.
- White
White is their least preferred color, especially when the ones that “call” them the most are present. In the study, all were tested with white to make a comparison.
- Green
As with the previous ones, the animals prefer other shades of green. Between a hand with green gloves and another with nothing on, the mosquitoes move away from the colored ones.
- Violet
The violet wavelength is shorter than other colors in the visible spectrum. For this reason, insects prefer those with a much greater length, such as red ones.
