Distribution of Culex coronator in the USA

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Vector Ecology
• Public Health

Background:

• Culex coronator, first reported in Texas in 1920, has shown a notable expansion in its geographic range.
• Recent observations indicate a spread into the southeastern USA, reaching 14 states by 2005.
• The species' public health significance remains unclear, despite its potential role in transmitting arboviral diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document new county-level distribution records for Culex coronator.
• To provide updated information on the ongoing expansion of this mosquito species in the southern United States.
• To offer a concise research update on the vector potential of Culex coronator.

Main Methods:

• Data compilation from multistate collaborations.
• Inclusion of mosquito collection data from authors.
• Geographic mapping of new county records.

Main Results:

• 146 new county records were identified across 10 southern states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Texas.
• The study confirms the presence of Culex coronator in 386 counties across 14 continental USA states.
• No new records were found in Arizona, New Mexico, Tennessee, or Virginia, states previously reporting the species.

Conclusions:

• Culex coronator continues to expand its distribution throughout the southern USA.
• The documented expansion highlights the need for continued surveillance and research into the public health implications of this mosquito species.
• Further investigation into the vector competence of Culex coronator for arboviruses is warranted.