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Aedes thibaulti in northern New Jersey
1Department of Entomology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8536, USA.
Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association
|November 14, 1998
Summary
Aedes thibaulti mosquito larvae were found breeding in a tree cavity near a temporary snow pool in New Jersey. This discovery indicates the species can adapt its breeding habitat in northern regions.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Ecology
- Vector Biology
Background:
- Aedes thibaulti exhibits a patchy distribution across its range, from Louisiana to Ontario.
- This mosquito species typically breeds in tree cavities in low-lying swampy areas.
- Previous research indicated larvae were absent in the northeastern range, despite adult presence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the breeding habitat of Aedes thibaulti in the northeastern United States.
- To determine if Aedes thibaulti utilizes different breeding habitats in northern areas compared to southern areas.
Main Methods:
- Larval collection from a flooded red maple tree cavity.
- Habitat characterization including proximity to a temporary snow pool.
- Observation of larval persistence until habitat desiccation.
Main Results:
- Aedes thibaulti larvae were successfully collected from a flooded tree cavity in northern New Jersey.
- The breeding habitat was associated with a temporary snow pool in a dry forested area.
- Larvae inhabited the cavity from April 20 until mid-May.
Conclusions:
- Aedes thibaulti is capable of cavity breeding in the northern part of its range.
- The species can utilize temporary pool-associated tree cavities as breeding sites in drier, forested environments.
- This adaptability suggests a broader range of suitable breeding habitats for Aedes thibaulti than previously understood.