How do mosquito larvae obtain air?

Mosquito larvae obtain air primarily through their siphons or air tubes, which are specialized structures located at the tip of their abdomen. These siphons allow the larvae to breathe atmospheric air while remaining submerged in water. When they come to the surface, they can extend these siphons to access oxygen, making it possible for them to thrive in their aquatic environment. This adaptation is crucial as it enables them to meet their oxygen needs without exposing their entire body to potential predation or environmental hazards.

While the other options mention other means of respiration, they do not accurately describe how mosquito larvae primarily obtain air. For instance, gills are more common in other aquatic organisms, and although dissolved oxygen in water is vital for various aquatic life forms, mosquito larvae specifically utilize their siphons for breathing air instead of extracting oxygen from water directly. Similarly, respiration through the skin is not a characteristic feature for mosquito larvae; they are more reliant on the siphon system to effectively access the air needed for their survival.