Asian Tiger Mosquito Aedes albopictus

Bold white stripes on a black body make this mosquito instantly recognizable—even to those who don't study insects. Native to tropical Southeast Asia, it has become an invasive global superstar, hitchhiking around the world through cargo and travel. More aggressive than most mosquitoes and active during daylight hours, this tiger mosquito has proven devastatingly effective at establishing itself in new territories. Its rapid spread is a masterclass in how a single species can turn continents into colonies through sheer competitive drive and human-assisted transport.