Iceland has mosquitoes for the first time
Mosquitoes have been discovered in Iceland for the first time - the country was previously thought to be the only one in the Arctic without them. This is important because it could be a sign of climate change.
The insects were found in 2025 near Reykjavik. It was three individuals of the species Culiseta annulata.
Details
Scientists believe that the emergence of mosquitoes is linked to climate warming and changes in the environment. In the past, conditions on the island were too harsh for them to survive.
Now the situation is changing - and new species may be arriving along with the temperature.
Although mosquitoes are perceived as a common household problem, their arrival can affect the ecosystem.
For example, animals such as deer will spend more energy defending themselves against the insects and less on food. This can affect their health and reproduction.
Also, changes in insect populations can affect plants and birds because they are linked by a common food chain.
Why it matters
Scientists see the emergence of mosquitoes as a signal of deeper change.
This means:
- the climate becomes more favourable to new species
- ecosystems may change faster than expected
- new risks to animals and people may be emerging in the Arctic
However, experts note that there is currently no single system that tracks such changes across the region.
Background
Iceland has long been considered unique - the only country in the Arctic without mosquitoes.
But as temperatures rise and humans become more active, conditions for the insects are becoming more suitable.
Scientists are calling for an international monitoring system to track such changes more quickly.
Source
The commentary was published in the journal Science (2026). The authors are US researchers studying the impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems.