Standardized Bioassays to Better Understand the Invasion Dynamics of the Global Arbovirus Vector Aedes albopictus

The global spread of the arbovirus vector Aedes albopictus has become a major public health concern. In tropical regions, competitive interactions with native species such as Aedes aegypti may have influenced its invasive success. Understanding the bioecological drivers behind its establishment and spread is crucial for informing targeted control measures. Here, we propose experimental settings, based on life history traits, to elucidate the factors that allow Ae. albopictus to colonize new environments, outcompete native species, expand geographically, and ultimately subject invaded regions to risks of arbovirus diseases. To this effect, we designed a series of Basic Protocols listed below. Each protocol simulates environmental conditions in which Ae. albopictus and Ae. aegypti coexist, allowing comparison of their bioecological responses and adaptability to shared resources. The validated results, showing the reproducibility of these methods, provide a foundation for evidence-based strategies to mitigate the public health risks posed by the spread of Ae. albopictus in invaded territories. © 2025 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Support Protocol: Essential preliminary procedures Basic Protocol 1: Evaluation of larval habitat occupancy rates Basic Protocol 2: Evaluation of the female oviposition rate and reproductive potential Basic Protocol 3: Evaluation of embryonic kinetics Basic Protocol 4: Evaluation of hatching rate Basic Protocol 5: Evaluation of longevity.