What is significant about the eggs of Aedes taeniorhynchus?

The significance of the eggs of Aedes taeniorhynchus lies in their ability to remain dormant for extended periods, sometimes lasting several months. This dormancy is a critical adaptation that allows the species to survive in varying environmental conditions. The eggs can withstand desiccation and will hatch when they are rehydrated, typically during flooding events. This characteristic enables Aedes taeniorhynchus to take advantage of temporary water sources that form after heavy rains, ensuring their reproductive success even in fluctuating habitats.

In contrast to the dormancy feature, the other choices present misconceptions about the biology of these mosquitoes. For instance, while the hatching of eggs upon flooding is a trait of some mosquito species, it does not apply to Aedes taeniorhynchus as their eggs require a period of dormancy. Similarly, the assertion that they require no water to develop is incorrect because water is essential for the eggs to hatch and for the larvae to develop. Finally, while Aedes taeniorhynchus can lay eggs in brackish environments, they are not exclusive to saltwater; they can also thrive in freshwater habitats. Hence, the dormancy of the eggs is a vital adaptive trait that supports their lifecycle and the