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Can Trapping Abundance Data Be Used to Identify Persistent Target Areas for Culicoides Biting Midge Control Efforts?
Aaron M Lloyd1, Daniel L Kline2, Karen E McKenzie3
1Lee County Mosquito Control District, Lehigh Acres, FL 33971, USA.
Insects
|June 26, 2026
Summary
Florida mosquito control districts face challenges with biting midges. This study analyzed Culicoides furens (C. furens) populations in Cedar Key, Florida, providing data for integrated management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Entomology
- Medical Entomology
- Public Health Entomology
Background:
- Florida mosquito control districts encounter significant Culicoides biting midge issues in coastal regions.
- There is a lack of clear guidelines for incorporating Culicoides management into existing mosquito control programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document population abundance and distribution trends of Culicoides furens on a residential island in Cedar Key, Florida.
- To inform the development of integrated management strategies for Culicoides furens by mosquito control districts.
Main Methods:
- Utilized multi-year adult trapping data collected in 2005 and 2007.
- Analyzed seasonal peaks, spatial distribution patterns, and year-to-year population variations.
Main Results:
- Identified distinct seasonal peaks in C. furens populations.
- Observed high spatial heterogeneity in midge distribution across the study area.
- Documented a substantial year-to-year variation, including an 88.3% reduction in trap captures between 2005 and 2007.
Conclusions:
- The findings establish a basis for integrated Culicoides management strategies.
- Data supports expanded Culicoides control activities by Florida Mosquito Control Districts when warranted by legal, health, or nuisance concerns.
