AEDES ALBOPICTUS IN-HOUSE WINTER BREEDING IN GERMANY-A CASE STUDY
1Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research, Müncheberg, Germany.
Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association
|October 20, 2024
Summary
Asian tiger mosquitoes (Aedes albopictus) were found breeding indoors in Germany during winter. This suggests indoor environments may allow overwintering and continued activity for this invasive species in Central Europe.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Invasive Species Biology
- Citizen Science
Background:
- The Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) is an invasive species of public health concern.
- Its overwintering and potential for year-round activity in non-native regions are critical factors for its establishment and spread.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the unusual occurrence of Aedes albopictus activity and breeding during winter in Central Europe.
- To investigate the potential for indoor environments to facilitate overwintering of this invasive mosquito species.
Main Methods:
- Mosquito specimens were collected by a citizen scientist in Mannheim, Germany, in February 2024.
- Specimens were identified as Aedes albopictus.
- The citizen scientist was consulted on mosquito biology, leading to the discovery of indoor developmental stages.
Main Results:
- Adult Aedes albopictus mosquitoes were identified from a collection made in February 2024.
- Numerous developmental stages of Aedes albopictus were found in indoor water (flowerpot) in the same location.
- This represents the first description of adult tiger mosquito occurrence during winter in Central Europe.
Conclusions:
- The indoor presence and breeding of Aedes albopictus during winter in Central Europe is likely an indoor phenomenon.
- Provided ideal conditions, continuous indoor breeding and activity may offer an exceptional overwintering strategy for Aedes albopictus in this region.
