"Genetic Study Traces 'London Underground Mosquito' Roots to Ancient Mediterranean"

A genetic study reveals that the London Underground Mosquito, once thought to have evolved in the subway, actually traces its roots to the ancient Mediterranean Sea.

• The mosquito species identified as Culex pipiens was believed to have adapted exclusively to the London Underground environment after World War II, but new research contradicts this.
• Genetic analysis shows that Culex pipiens has origins linked to the Mediterranean Sea, suggesting a much older evolutionary history than previously thought.
• This study highlights concerns about Culex pipiens as a potential vector for diseases like the West Nile virus, linking its adaptability to urban environments.