If human-directed pestilence were an industry, the Aedes mosquitoes would be among the most successful, when compared to the regular mosquitoes. Bock Seng says that some very critical investment principles can be learnt from the Aedes mosquito.

1. To date, we haven't been able to stamp out the Aedes mosquito altogether. That's because the Aedes mosquito doesn't breed just in your flowerpots. They also breed in the drains, on your roofs, in some old deserted toilet, in the hollowed stump of a tree. It diversifies its risks.

2. Normal mosquitos attack at night. People know that, so every measure is taken at night to put up mosquito nets, light up mosquito coils etc. So the resistance is there. Aedes mosquitoes usually attack in the day, when people are less cautious. Good timing is of the essence!

3. Normal mosquitoes attack normally the upper appendages, like the arms, neck etc. And many of them get swatted to death. But the Aedes mosquito is wise to attack where it's the hardest to avoid, lower appendages like the ankles! It comes in at the level that it can be the most effective!

I'm not sure about points 2 or 3, but in any case, something to think about!

Labels: Coffee with Goh Bock Seng