Anopheles mosquito. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a female malaria mosquito (Anopheles sp.) The Anopheles mosquito can be distinguished from other mosquitoes by their palps, which in this species are as long as the proboscis. The palps carry receptors which guide the mosquito to its host. The proboscis, composed of the labium and two labella, is used for feeding, and is the part responsible for the mosquito's sting. The Anopheles mosquito is the vector for the malaria parasite. However, the male feeds mainly on nectar, only the female drinks the blood of animals and thus transmits the parasite. Magnification: x40 when printed at 10 centimetres wide.