Which stages of a mosquito's life cycle are considered aquatic?

The stages of a mosquito's life cycle that are considered aquatic include the egg, larva, and pupa.

Mosquitoes begin their life cycle when the female lays eggs in or near water, which can include ponds, lakes, or even small containers that collect rainwater. These eggs are often laid in clusters or rafts that float on the water's surface.

Once the eggs hatch, they enter the larval stage, commonly referred to as "wrigglers." In this stage, larvae live in water and feed on organic matter and microorganisms. They are fully aquatic and often can be seen swimming just below the surface.

The next stage is the pupa, also commonly known as "tumblers." Pupae are also aquatic and rest at the water surface. Unlike larvae, pupae do not feed; instead, they are in a transitional state, preparing to emerge as adult mosquitoes.

In contrast, the adult stage is not aquatic. Adult mosquitoes emerge from the pupal stage and are primarily aerial organisms, seeking places to feed and reproduce away from the water. The option that includes all stages except for the adult stage accurately describes the aquatic aspects of the mosquito's life cycle.