The first three stages of mosquitoes life i.e- egg, larval stage and pupa can last from 5 to 15 days. Which means that, it is possible that adult mosquitoes are seen in the cup only after 15 days. This time duration is affected by the weather, it may take longer time for larve to mature into adult mosquitoes if the weather is cold.

It is important that the children also collect some water from the place they are collecting larvae. The larvae will not survive without water. The cup should be covered with a cloth or cotton so that air can pass through.