What is the primary function of the proboscis in adult mosquitoes?

The primary function of the proboscis in adult mosquitoes is to feed on nectar or blood. The proboscis is a specialized mouthpart that extends from the front of the mosquito's head, allowing it to pierce the skin of hosts (like humans and animals) or access nectar from flowers. In blood-feeding species, the proboscis has evolved to include components that facilitate the insertion into the skin and to draw blood efficiently while also injecting saliva that contains anticoagulants to prevent clotting during feeding.

Understanding this function highlights the importance of the proboscis in the mosquito's life cycle and ecological role, as it plays a critical part in reproduction (by obtaining nutrients from blood) and in interactions with plants (by feeding on nectar).