Distribution and seasonality of Culex (Melanoconion) caudelli, a vector of arboviruses in Trinidad |
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Authors: | DAVE D CHADEE ELISHA S TIKASINGH |
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Institution: | Insect Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, St. Joseph, Trinidad. |
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Abstract: | Seasonal and spatial distributions of the arbovirus vector mosquito Culex (Melanoconion) caudelli Dyar and Knab (Diptera: Culicidae) in the Aripo-Wallerfield forest, Trinidad, were studied by collecting mosquitoes attracted to mouse-baited traps in forest, ecotone and savannah, one day per week throughout the year, 98% of the Cx caudelli mosquitoes were collected during the wet season, with a significant positive correlation between rainfall and mosquito catch. The reverse occurred during the dry season. Cx caudelli displayed a preference for the ecotone where 67% were collected, while 32% and 1% were collected in the forest and savannah respectively. |
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Keywords: | Culex caudelli mosquito seasonality arbovirus vector forest ecotone savannah Trinidad |
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