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Updated: May 22, 2026
05:29
Propagation of the Microsporidian Parasite Edhazardia aedis in Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes
Published on: August 13, 2020
Does differential predation permit invasive and native mosquito larvae to coexist in Florida?
Marcus W Griswold1, L Philip Lounibos
1Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville.
Ecological Entomology
|April 26, 2012
Summary
Selective predation by Toxorhynchites rutilus and Corethrella appendiculata on invasive Aedes albopictus mosquito larvae may explain their coexistence with native Ochlerotatus triseriatus. Predators consistently consumed more invasive mosquito larvae.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Entomology
- Invasive Species Biology
Background:
- Invasive Aedes albopictus mosquito larvae compete with native species.
- Understanding factors promoting coexistence is crucial for invasive species management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test if selective predation by native dipteran predators on invasive Aedes albopictus larvae facilitates coexistence with Ochlerotatus triseriatus.
- To evaluate the functional responses and prey preferences of Toxorhynchites rutilus and Corethrella appendiculata.
Main Methods:
- Experimental assessment of functional responses of T. rutilus and C. appendiculata to A. albopictus and O. triseriatus larvae.
- Analysis of predator consumption rates and handling times for both prey species.
- Evaluation of prey preference under varying prey ratios.
Main Results:
- Both predators exhibited Type II functional responses.
- Predators consumed significantly more invasive A. albopictus larvae than native O. triseriatus.
- Handling time for O. triseriatus by T. rutilus was longer; A. albopictus was preferred regardless of prey ratio.
Conclusions:
- Differential predation, favoring the invasive species, likely promotes the stable coexistence of A. albopictus and O. triseriatus in Florida ecosystems.
- Predator selectivity is a key factor in mediating interactions between invasive and native mosquito populations.
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