The stages between these molts are called instars. The larval stage has four instars. The length of the larval stage ranges from 4 to 14 days, varying with species, water temperature, and food availability. In the pupal stage, no feeding occurs. But like the larva, the pupa is sensitive to light, shadows and other water disturbances.
Pupae are also physically active and employ a tumbling action to escape to deeper water.
The male mosquito will usually emerge first and will linger near the breeding site, waiting for the females. Mating occurs quickly after emergence due to high adult mortality rates. The females compensate for this high rate by laying large numbers of eggs to assure the continuation of the species. Male mosquitoes will live only 6 or 7 days on average, feeding primarily on plant nectars. Females with an adequate food supply can live up to 5 months, while the average female survives about 6 weeks.