dynamAedes: a unified modelling framework for invasive Aedes mosquitoes

Area of Science:

• Vector ecology
• Invasive species biology
• Mathematical modeling in public health

Background:

• Invasive Aedes mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus, Aedes japonicus, Aedes koreicus) pose significant public health risks due to their role in transmitting arboviruses.
• Global trade and travel facilitate the spread of these invasive species beyond their native ranges.
• Understanding their population dynamics is critical for effective disease vector control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a flexible, open-source modeling framework for invasive Aedes species.
• To integrate key eco-physiological traits influencing mosquito population dynamics.
• To provide a tool for both ecological research and practical invasive species management.

Main Methods:

• A multi-scale, stage-based, time-discrete stochastic modeling framework was developed and coded in R (dynamAedes package).
• The model incorporates environmental drivers such as temperature and photoperiod, alongside inter-specific larval competition.
• It operates across punctual, local, and regional spatial scales, accounting for active and passive dispersal and temperature data heterogeneity.

Main Results:

• The dynamAedes package synthesizes the life cycle of four key invasive Aedes species.
• The model offers a unified framework adaptable to varying spatial complexities and data availability.
• It provides a user-friendly tool based on current biological knowledge of these species.

Conclusions:

• The dynamAedes R package offers a valuable, adaptable tool for managing invasive Aedes populations and supporting ecological research.
• This modeling approach enhances our ability to predict and mitigate the impact of disease-vectoring mosquitoes.
• The open-source nature promotes accessibility and further development in vector control science.