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Comparison of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-backpack and insectazooka aspirators for sampling Aedes
Abstract:
The efficiency of the recently developed handheld InsectaZooka (IZ) aspirator was compared to that of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-Backpack (CDC-BP) aspirator by conducting human bait collections on 2 islets (locally called motus) of the atoll of Tetiaroa, French Polynesia. Abundance of mosquitoes was compared between the wind-exposed and wind-protected sides of each motu to measure the effect of wind on mosquito distribution. The number of host-seeking Aedes polynesiensis mosquitoes collected on the 2 motus with either sampling device was not significantly different. Collection of male mosquitoes was low irrespective of the type of aspirator used. Wind had an effect on mosquito distribution, as females were more abundant on the protected sides of both motus. The IZ aspirator is a lighter and equally efficient alternative to the CDC-BP aspirator for collecting Ae. polynesiensis.
Insights
The InsectaZooka (IZ) aspirator is as effective as the CDC-Backpack (CDC-BP) aspirator for collecting Aedes polynesiensis mosquitoes. This lighter alternative is suitable for mosquito control efforts.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Vector-borne Disease Control
Background:
- Mosquito control programs rely on efficient sampling methods.
- Comparing new equipment to established standards is crucial for adoption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficiency of the InsectaZooka (IZ) aspirator against the CDC-Backpack (CDC-BP) aspirator.
- To assess the impact of wind exposure on mosquito distribution.
Main Methods:
- Human bait collections were conducted on two islets in Tetiaroa, French Polynesia.
- Mosquito abundance was compared between wind-exposed and wind-protected areas.
- The InsectaZooka (IZ) and CDC-Backpack (CDC-BP) aspirators were used for collections.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in the number of host-seeking Aedes polynesiensis collected by either aspirator.
- Female mosquitoes were more abundant on wind-protected sides, indicating wind's effect on distribution.
- Low collection numbers for male mosquitoes were observed with both devices.
Conclusions:
- The InsectaZooka (IZ) aspirator is a viable, lighter alternative to the CDC-Backpack (CDC-BP) aspirator for Ae. polynesiensis collection.
- Wind significantly influences the distribution of host-seeking Ae. polynesiensis females.
