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Srivastava DS, Harris N, Páez N, Rogy P, Westwood NE, Sandoval-Acuña P, Seetharaman K. Insects in the city: Determinants of a contained aquatic microecosystem across an urbanized landscape. Ecology 2024; 105:e4204. [PMID: 37926440 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.4204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Cities can have profound impacts on ecosystems, yet our understanding of these impacts is currently limited. First, the effects of the socioeconomic dimensions of human society are often overlooked. Second, correlative analyses are common, limiting our causal understanding of mechanisms. Third, most research has focused on terrestrial systems, ignoring aquatic systems that also provide important ecosystem services. Here we compare the effects of human population density and low-income prevalence on the macroinvertebrate communities and ecosystem processes within water-filled artificial tree holes. We hypothesized that these human demographic variables would affect tree holes in different ways via changes in temperature, water nutrients, and the local tree hole environment. We recruited community scientists across Greater Vancouver (Canada) to provide host trees and tend 50 tree holes over 14 weeks of colonization. We quantified tree hole ecosystems in terms of aquatic invertebrates, litter decomposition, and chlorophyll a (chl a). We compiled potential explanatory variables from field measurements, satellite images, or census databases. Using structural equation models, we showed that invertebrate abundance was affected by low-income prevalence but not human population density. This was driven by cosmopolitan species of Ceratopogonidae (Diptera) with known associations to anthropogenic containers. Invertebrate diversity and abundance were also affected by environmental factors, such as temperature, elevation, water nutrients, litter quantity, and exposure. By contrast, invertebrate biomass, chl a, and litter decomposition were not affected by any measured variables. In summary, this study shows that some urban ecosystems can be largely unaffected by human population density. Our study also demonstrates the potential of using artificial tree holes as a standardized, replicated habitat for studying urbanization. Finally, by combining community science and urban ecology, we were able to involve our local community in this pandemic research pivot.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane S Srivastava
- Biodiversity Research Centre and Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Noam Harris
- Biodiversity Research Centre and Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nadia Páez
- Biodiversity Research Centre and Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pierre Rogy
- Biodiversity Research Centre and Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Natalie Elena Westwood
- Biodiversity Research Centre and Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pablo Sandoval-Acuña
- Biodiversity Research Centre and Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Keerthikrutha Seetharaman
- Biodiversity Research Centre and Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Biology, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
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McMahon A, França CMB, Wimberly MC. Comparing Satellite and Ground-Based Measurements of Environmental Suitability for Vector Mosquitoes in an Urban Landscape. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 59:1936-1946. [PMID: 36189969 PMCID: PMC9667728 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjac145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to mosquito-borne diseases is influenced by landscape patterns and microclimates associated with land cover. These influences can be particularly strong in heterogeneous urban landscapes where human populations are concentrated. We investigated how land cover and climate influenced abundances of Ae. albopictus (Skuse) (Diptera: Culicidae) and Cx. quinquefasciatus (Say) (Diptera: Culicidae) in Norman, Oklahoma (United States). From June-October 2019 and May-October 2020 we sampled mosquitoes along an urban-rural gradient using CO2 baited BG Sentinel traps. Microclimate sensors at these sites measured temperature and humidity. We mapped environmental variables using satellite images from Landsat, Sentinel-2, and VIIRS, and the CHIRPS rainfall dataset. We also obtained meteorological data from the closest weather station. We compared statistical models of mosquito abundance based on microclimate, satellite, weather station, and land cover data. Mosquitoes were more abundant on trap days with higher temperature and relative humidity. Rainfall 2 wk prior to the trap day negatively affected mosquito abundances. Impervious surface cover was positively associated with Cx. quinquefasciatus and tree cover was negatively associated with Ae. albopictus. Among the data sources, models based on satellite variables and land cover data had the best fits for Ae. albopictus (R2 = 0.7) and Cx. quinquefasciatus (R2 = 0.51). Models based on weather station or microclimate data had weaker fits (R2 between 0.09 and 0.17) but were improved by adding land cover variables (R2 between 0.44 and 0.61). These results demonstrate the potential for using satellite remote sensing for mosquito habitat analyses in urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea McMahon
- Department of Geography and Environmental Sustainability, University of Oklahoma, Norman OK, USA
| | - Caio M B França
- Department of Biology, Southern Nazarene University, Bethany, OK, USA
- Quetzal Education and Research Center, Southern Nazarene University, San Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica
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Combs MA, Kache PA, VanAcker MC, Gregory N, Plimpton LD, Tufts DM, Fernandez MP, Diuk-Wasser MA. Socio-ecological drivers of multiple zoonotic hazards in highly urbanized cities. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2022; 28:1705-1724. [PMID: 34889003 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.16033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of pathogen spillover from wildlife to human hosts, particularly in densely populated urban centers. Prevention of future zoonotic disease is contingent on informed surveillance for known and novel threats across diverse human-wildlife interfaces. Cities are a key venue for potential spillover events because of the presence of zoonotic pathogens transmitted by hosts and vectors living in close proximity to dense human settlements. Effectively identifying and managing zoonotic hazards requires understanding the socio-ecological processes driving hazard distribution and pathogen prevalence in dynamic and heterogeneous urban landscapes. Despite increasing awareness of the human health impacts of zoonotic hazards, the integration of an eco-epidemiological perspective into public health management plans remains limited. Here we discuss how landscape patterns, abiotic conditions, and biotic interactions influence zoonotic hazards across highly urbanized cities (HUCs) in temperate climates to promote their efficient and effective management by a multi-sectoral coalition of public health stakeholders. We describe how to interpret both direct and indirect ecological processes, incorporate spatial scale, and evaluate networks of connectivity specific to different zoonotic hazards to promote biologically-informed and targeted decision-making. Using New York City, USA as a case study, we identify major zoonotic threats, apply knowledge of relevant ecological factors, and highlight opportunities and challenges for research and intervention. We aim to broaden the toolbox of urban public health stakeholders by providing ecologically-informed, practical guidance for the evaluation and management of zoonotic hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Combs
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Pallavi A Kache
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Meredith C VanAcker
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nichar Gregory
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Laura D Plimpton
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Danielle M Tufts
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Department, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Maria P Fernandez
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Maria A Diuk-Wasser
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
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Dieme C, Maffei JG, Diarra M, Koetzner CA, Kuo L, Ngo KA, Dupuis AP, Zink SD, Bryon Backenson P, Kramer LD, Ciota AT. Aedes albopictus and Cache Valley virus: a new threat for virus transmission in New York State. Emerg Microbes Infect 2022; 11:741-748. [PMID: 35179429 PMCID: PMC8903793 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2022.2044733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We report surveillance results of Cache Valley virus (CVV; Peribunyaviridae, Orthobunyavirus) from 2017 to 2020 in New York State (NYS). Infection rates were calculated using the maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) method by year, region, and mosquito species. The highest infection rates were identified among Anopheles spp. mosquitoes and we detected the virus in Aedes albopictus for the first time in NYS. Based on our previous Anopheles quadrimaculatus vector competence results for nine CVV strains, we selected among them three stains for further characterization. These include two CVV reassortants (PA and 15041084) and one CVV lineage 2 strain (Hu-2011). We analyzed full genomes, compared in vitro growth kinetics and assessed vector competence of Aedes albopictus. Sequence analysis of the two reassortant strains (PA and 15041084) revealed 0.3%, 0.4%, and 0.3% divergence; and 1, 10, and 6 amino acid differences for the S, M, and L segments, respectively. We additionally found that the PA strain was attenuated in vertebrate (Vero) and mosquito (C6/36) cell culture. Furthemore, Ae. albopictus mosquitoes are competent vectors for CVV Hu-2011 (16.7–62.1% transmission rates) and CVV 15041084 (27.3–48.0% transmission rates), but not for the human reassortant (PA) isolate, which did not disseminate from the mosquito midgut. Together, our results demonstrate significant phenotypic variability among strains and highlight the capacity for Ae. albopictus to act as a vector of CVV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constentin Dieme
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Slingerlands, New York, USA (C. Dieme, J.G. Maffei, C.A Koetzner, L. Kuo, K.A. Ngo, A.P. Dupuis II, S.D. Zink, L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota)
| | - Joseph G Maffei
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Slingerlands, New York, USA (C. Dieme, J.G. Maffei, C.A Koetzner, L. Kuo, K.A. Ngo, A.P. Dupuis II, S.D. Zink, L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota)
| | - Maryam Diarra
- Institut Pasteur de Dakar, Dakar, Senegal (M. Diarra)
| | - Cheri A Koetzner
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Slingerlands, New York, USA (C. Dieme, J.G. Maffei, C.A Koetzner, L. Kuo, K.A. Ngo, A.P. Dupuis II, S.D. Zink, L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota)
| | - Lili Kuo
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Slingerlands, New York, USA (C. Dieme, J.G. Maffei, C.A Koetzner, L. Kuo, K.A. Ngo, A.P. Dupuis II, S.D. Zink, L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota)
| | - Kiet A Ngo
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Slingerlands, New York, USA (C. Dieme, J.G. Maffei, C.A Koetzner, L. Kuo, K.A. Ngo, A.P. Dupuis II, S.D. Zink, L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota)
| | - Alan P Dupuis
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Slingerlands, New York, USA (C. Dieme, J.G. Maffei, C.A Koetzner, L. Kuo, K.A. Ngo, A.P. Dupuis II, S.D. Zink, L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota)
| | - Steven D Zink
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Slingerlands, New York, USA (C. Dieme, J.G. Maffei, C.A Koetzner, L. Kuo, K.A. Ngo, A.P. Dupuis II, S.D. Zink, L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota)
| | - P Bryon Backenson
- New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, Albany, New York (P.B. Backenson)
| | - Laura D Kramer
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Slingerlands, New York, USA (C. Dieme, J.G. Maffei, C.A Koetzner, L. Kuo, K.A. Ngo, A.P. Dupuis II, S.D. Zink, L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota).,Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, New York, USA (L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota)
| | - Alexander T Ciota
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Slingerlands, New York, USA (C. Dieme, J.G. Maffei, C.A Koetzner, L. Kuo, K.A. Ngo, A.P. Dupuis II, S.D. Zink, L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota).,Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, New York, USA (L.D. Kramer, and A.T. Ciota)
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Camargo C, Alfonso-Parra C, Díaz S, Rincon DF, Ramírez-Sánchez LF, Agudelo J, Barrientos LM, Villa-Arias S, Avila FW. Spatial and temporal population dynamics of male and female Aedes albopictus at a local scale in Medellín, Colombia. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:312. [PMID: 34103091 PMCID: PMC8188797 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04806-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diseases transmitted by invasive Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes are public health issues in the tropics and subtropics. Understanding the ecology of mosquito vectors is essential for the development of effective disease mitigation programs and will allow for accurate predictions of vector occurrence and abundance. Studies that examine mosquito population dynamics are typically focused on female presence or total adult captures without discriminating the temporal and spatial distribution of both sexes. METHODS We collected immature and adult mosquitoes bimonthly for 2 years (2018-2019) in the Medellín Botanical Garden. Collection sites differed in proximity to buildings and nearby vegetation, and were classified by their overhead vegetation cover. We used linear mixed models (LMMs) and Spatial Analysis by Distance Indices (SADIE) to assess the spatial distribution of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus. Using our Ae. albopictus captures exclusively, we assessed (1) the spatial and temporal distribution of males and females using SADIE and a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM), (2) the relationship between climatic variables/vegetation coverage and adult captures using GLMMs and LMMs, and (3) the correlation of male and female size in relation to climatic variables and vegetation coverage using LMMs. RESULTS Spatial analysis showed that Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus were distributed at different locations within the surveilled area. However, Ae. albopictus was the predominant species in the park during the study period. Adult Ae. albopictus captures were positively correlated with precipitation and relative humidity, and inversely correlated with temperature and wind speed. Moreover, we observed a spatial misalignment of Ae. albopictus males and females-the majority of males were located in the high vegetation coverage sites, while females were more evenly distributed. We observed significant associations of the size of our adult Ae. albopictus captures with precipitation, temperature, and wind speed for both sexes and found that overhead vegetation cover influenced male size, but observed no effect on female size. CONCLUSIONS Our work elucidates the differential dynamics of Ae. albopictus males and females, which is pivotal to develop accurate surveillance and the successful establishment of vector control programs based on the disruption of insect reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Camargo
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Mosquito Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Antioquia, Complejo RutaN, Calle 67 #52-20, Laboratory 4-166, 050010, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Catalina Alfonso-Parra
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Mosquito Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Antioquia, Complejo RutaN, Calle 67 #52-20, Laboratory 4-166, 050010, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
- Instituto Colombiano de Medicina Tropical, Universidad CES, 055450, Sabaneta, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Sebastián Díaz
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Mosquito Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Antioquia, Complejo RutaN, Calle 67 #52-20, Laboratory 4-166, 050010, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Diego F Rincon
- Centro de Investigación Tibaitatá, Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (AGROSAVIA), 250047, Mosquera, Cundinamarca, Colombia
| | - Luis Felipe Ramírez-Sánchez
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Mosquito Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Antioquia, Complejo RutaN, Calle 67 #52-20, Laboratory 4-166, 050010, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Juliana Agudelo
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Mosquito Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Antioquia, Complejo RutaN, Calle 67 #52-20, Laboratory 4-166, 050010, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Luisa M Barrientos
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Mosquito Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Antioquia, Complejo RutaN, Calle 67 #52-20, Laboratory 4-166, 050010, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Sara Villa-Arias
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Mosquito Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Antioquia, Complejo RutaN, Calle 67 #52-20, Laboratory 4-166, 050010, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Frank W Avila
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Mosquito Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Antioquia, Complejo RutaN, Calle 67 #52-20, Laboratory 4-166, 050010, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia.
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Wide and increasing suitability for Aedes albopictus in Europe is congruent across distribution models. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9916. [PMID: 33972597 PMCID: PMC8110805 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89096-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), a vector of dengue, Zika and other diseases, was introduced in Europe in the 1970s, where it is still widening its range. Spurred by public health concerns, several studies have delivered predictions of the current and future distribution of the species for this region, often with differing results. We provide the first joint analysis of these predictions, to identify consensus hotspots of high and low suitability, as well as areas with high uncertainty. The analysis focused on current and future climate conditions and was carried out for the whole of Europe and for 65 major urban areas. High consensus on current suitability was found for the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, southern France, Italy and the coastline between the western Balkans and Greece. Most models also agree on a substantial future expansion of suitable areas into northern and eastern Europe. About 83% of urban areas are expected to become suitable in the future, in contrast with ~ 49% nowadays. Our findings show that previous research is congruent in identifying wide suitable areas for Aedes albopictus across Europe and in the need to effectively account for climate change in managing and preventing its future spread.
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Westby KM, Juliano SA, Medley KA. Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) Has Not Become the Dominant Species in Artificial Container Habitats in a Temperate Forest More Than a Decade After Establishment. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:950-955. [PMID: 33073848 PMCID: PMC8244635 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Aedes albopictus (Skuse) (Diptera: Culicidae) is one of the most invasive species globally, and has led to rapid declines and local extirpations of resident mosquitoes where it becomes established. A potential mechanism behind these displacements is the superior competitive ability of Ae. albopictus in larval habitats. Research on the context-dependent nature of competitive displacement predicts that Ae. albopictus will not replace native Aedes triseriatus (Say) (Diptera: Culicidae) in treeholes but could do so in artificial container habitats. Aedes albopictus remains rare in temperate treeholes but less is known about how Ae. albopictus fares in artificial containers in forests. Tyson Research Center (TRC) is a field station composed of mostly oak-hickory forest located outside Saint Louis, MO. The container community has been studied regularly at TRC since 2007 with permanently established artificial containers on the property since 2013. Aedes albopictus was detected each year when these communities were sampled; however, its abundance remains low and it fails to numerically dominate other species in these communities. We present data that show Ae. albopictus numbers have not increased in the last decade. We compare egg counts from 2007 to 2016 and combine larval sample data from 2012 to 2017.We present average larval densities and prevalence of Ae. albopictus and two competitors, Ae. triseriatus and Aedes japonicus (Theobald) (Diptera: Culicidae), as well as monthly averages by year. These data highlight a circumstance in which Ae. albopictus fails to dominate the Aedes community despite it doing so in more human-impacted habitats. We present hypotheses for these patterns based upon abiotic and biotic environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie M Westby
- Tyson Research Center, Washington University in Saint Louis, Eureka, MO
| | - Steven A Juliano
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL
| | - Kim A Medley
- Tyson Research Center, Washington University in Saint Louis, Eureka, MO
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Aedes albopictus Populations and Larval Habitat Characteristics across the Landscape: Significant Differences Exist between Urban and Rural Land Use Types. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12030196. [PMID: 33668917 PMCID: PMC7996563 DOI: 10.3390/insects12030196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
One of the most profound recent global changes has been the proliferation of urban metropolitan areas. A consequence of urbanization is a reduction in abundance, or diversity, of wildlife. One exception, is the proliferation of vectors of disease; recent years have seen the emergence and resurgence of diseases vectored by species closely associated with humans. Aedes albopictus, a mosquito with a near global range and broad ecological niche, has been described as an urban, suburban, or rural vector, or a forest edge species depending on local conditions. We tested the hypothesis that abundance and phenological patterns of this species vary among different land use types in a temperate city because of the variation in the biotic and abiotic conditions characteristic of those habitat types. A. albopictus populations in urban and suburban areas were an order of magnitude larger than in rural areas and were detected several weeks earlier in the season. Additionally, we found fewer overall mosquito species, higher temperatures, lower nitrogen, higher pH, and faster water evaporation in larval habitats in urban vs. rural areas. By understanding the ecological differences that facilitate a species in one habitat and not another, we can potentially exploit those differences for targeted control.
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Landscape and Anthropogenic Factors Associated with Adult Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in Small Cities in the Southern Great Plains. INSECTS 2020; 11:insects11100699. [PMID: 33066330 PMCID: PMC7602065 DOI: 10.3390/insects11100699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Mosquito-borne diseases are a growing human health concern in the United States. While recent studies have updated the distribution of Aedes aegypti in southern Great Plains, little is known about what factors can be used to predict where important mosquito species thrive in the region. The aim of the study assessed different factors associated with encountering adult container-breeding mosquitoes in small cities in southern Oklahoma. Collections using two types of traps were carried out over a ten week period from June to August 2017 along two geographical transects, each consisting of three cities, equally distant from the Red River/Texas border. After five rounds of collection, 6628 female mosquitoes were collected from 242 commercial or residential sites in six cities. Of the mosquitoes collected, 80% consisted of container-breeding species. Regionally, Ae. aegypti was most likely to be collected in cities closest to the Texas border while Aedes albopictus was spread throughout the region. In general, Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus were more associated with residential sites or sites featuring no or low vegetation. The study highlighted important factors involved in the distribution of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus in small cities in the southern Great Plains. Abstract As mosquito-borne diseases are a growing human health concern in the United States, the distribution and potential arbovirus risk from container-breeding Aedes mosquitoes is understudied in the southern Great Plains. The aim of the study was to assess landscape and anthropogenic factors associated with encountering adult container-breeding mosquitoes in small cities in southern Oklahoma. Collections were carried out over a 10 week period from June to August 2017 along two geographical transects, each consisting of three cities, equally distant from the Red River/Texas border. Mosquitoes were collected weekly using two trap types along with data for 13 landscape, vegetation, and anthropogenic variables. After five rounds of collection, 6628 female mosquitoes were collected over 2110 trap-nights involving 242 commercial or residential sites in six cities. Of the mosquitoes collected, 80% consisted of container-breeding species: Aedes albopictus (72%), Culex pipiens complex (16%) and Aedes aegypti (8%). Regionally, Aedes aegypti was more likely present in cities closest to the Texas border while Ae. albopictus was spread throughout the region. In general, Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus were significantly more present in sites featuring no or low vegetation and residential sites. Variables associated with Ae. albopictus presence and abundance varied between cities and highlighted the urban nature of the species. The study highlighted the distribution of Ae. aegypti geographically and within the urban context, indicated potential habitat preferences of container-breeding mosquito species in small towns, and demonstrated the usefulness of Gravid Aedes traps (GAT) traps for monitoring Aedes populations in urban habitats in small cities.
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Fikrig K, Peck S, Deckerman P, Dang S, St Fleur K, Goldsmith H, Qu S, Rosenthal H, Harrington LC. Sugar feeding patterns of New York Aedes albopictus mosquitoes are affected by saturation deficit, flowers, and host seeking. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008244. [PMID: 33104694 PMCID: PMC7644106 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sugar feeding is an important behavior which may determine vector potential of female mosquitoes. Sugar meals can reduce blood feeding frequency, enhance survival, and decrease fecundity, as well as provide energetic reserves to fuel energy intensive behaviors such as mating and host seeking. Sugar feeding behavior can be harnessed for vector control (e.g. attractive toxic sugar baits). Few studies have addressed sugar feeding of Aedes albopictus, a vector of arboviruses of public health importance, including dengue and Zika viruses. To address this knowledge gap, we assessed sugar feeding patterns of Ae. albopictus for the first time in its invasive northeastern USA range. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Using the cold anthrone fructose assay with robust sample sizes, we demonstrated that a large percentage of both male (49.6%) and female (41.8%) Ae. albopictus fed on plant or homopteran derived sugar sources within 24 hrs prior to capture. Our results suggest that sugar feeding behavior increases when environmental conditions are dry (high saturation deficit) and may vary by behavioral status (host seeking vs. resting). Furthermore, mosquitoes collected on properties with flowers (>3 blooms) had higher fructose concentrations compared to those collected from properties with few to no flowers (0-3). CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our results provide the first evidence of Ae. albopictus sugar feeding behavior in the Northeastern US and reveal relatively high rates of sugar feeding. These results suggest the potential success for regional deployment of toxic sugar baits. In addition, we demonstrate the impact of several environmental and mosquito parameters (saturation deficit, presence of flowers, host seeking status, and sex) on sugar feeding. Placing sugar feeding behavior in the context of these environmental and mosquito parameters provides further insight into spatiotemporal dynamics of feeding behavior for Ae. albopictus, and in turn, provides information for evidence-based control decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara Fikrig
- Entomology Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Sonile Peck
- Entomology Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Peter Deckerman
- Entomology Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Sharon Dang
- Entomology Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Kimberly St Fleur
- Entomology Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Henry Goldsmith
- Entomology Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Sophia Qu
- Entomology Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Hannah Rosenthal
- Entomology Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Laura C. Harrington
- Entomology Department, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
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11
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Case E, Shragai T, Harrington L, Ren Y, Morreale S, Erickson D. Evaluation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Neural Networks for Integrated Mosquito Management of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae). JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:1588-1595. [PMID: 32474595 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Aedes albopictus (Skuse), an invasive disease vector, poses a nuisance and public health threat to communities in the Northeastern United States. Climate change and ongoing adaptation are leading to range expansion of this mosquito into upstate New York and other northeastern states. Organized mosquito control can suppress populations, but it is time consuming, costly, and difficult as Ae. albopictus oviposits in small, artificial, water-holding containers. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), with centimeter-resolution imaging capabilities, can aid surveillance efforts. In this work, we show that a convolutional neural network trained on images from a UAV is able to detect Ae. albopictus habitat in suburban communities, and the number of containers successfully imaged by UAV predicted the number of containers positive for mosquito larvae per home. The neural network was able to identify some, but not all, potential habitat, with up to 67% precision and 40% recall, and can classify whole properties as positive or negative for larvae 80% of the time. This combined approach of UAV imaging and neutral network analysis has the potential to dramatically increase capacity for surveillance, increasing the reach and reducing the time necessary for conventional on-the-ground surveillance methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Case
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
- Department of Environmental and Earth Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Talya Shragai
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | | | - Yue Ren
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
| | | | - David Erickson
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
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12
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Kache PA, Eastwood G, Collins-Palmer K, Katz M, Falco RC, Bajwa WI, Armstrong PM, Andreadis TG, Diuk-Wasser MA. Environmental Determinants of Aedes albopictus Abundance at a Northern Limit of Its Range in the United States. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 102:436-447. [PMID: 31833467 PMCID: PMC7008348 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.19-0244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Aedes albopictus is a vector of arboviruses with high rates of morbidity and mortality. The northern limit of Ae. albopictus in the northeastern United States runs through New York state (NYS) and Connecticut. We present a landscape-level analysis of mosquito abundance measured by daily counts of Ae. albopictus from 338 trap sites in 12 counties during May–September 2017. During the study period, the mean number of Ae. albopictus caught per day of trapping across all sites was 3.21. We constructed four sets of negative binomial generalized linear models to evaluate how trapping methodology, land cover, as well as temperature and precipitation at multiple time intervals influenced Ae. albopictus abundance. Biogents-Sentinel (BGS) traps were 2.78 times as efficient as gravid traps and 1.49 times as efficient as CO2-baited CDC light traps. Greater proportions of low- and medium-intensity development and low proportions of deciduous cover around the trap site were positively associated with increased abundance, as were minimum winter temperature and March precipitation. The cumulative precipitation within a 28-day time window before the date of collection had a nonlinear relationship with abundance, such that greater cumulative precipitation was associated with increased abundance until approximately 70 mm, above which there was a decrease in abundance. We concluded that populations are established in Nassau, Suffolk, and New York City counties in NYS; north of these counties, the species is undergoing population invasion and establishment. We recommend that mosquito surveillance programs monitoring the northward invasion of Ae. albopictus place BGS traps at sites chosen with respect to land cover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallavi A Kache
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York City, New York
| | - Gillian Eastwood
- Center for Vector Biology & Zoonotic Diseases, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, Connecticut.,Department of Entomology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Kaitlin Collins-Palmer
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York City, New York
| | - Marly Katz
- Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York.,The Louis Calder Center-Biological Field Station, Fordham University, Armonk, New York
| | - Richard C Falco
- Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York.,The Louis Calder Center-Biological Field Station, Fordham University, Armonk, New York
| | - Waheed I Bajwa
- Office of Vector Surveillance and Control, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, New York
| | - Philip M Armstrong
- Center for Vector Biology & Zoonotic Diseases, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Theodore G Andreadis
- Center for Vector Biology & Zoonotic Diseases, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Maria A Diuk-Wasser
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York City, New York
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13
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Evans MV, Hintz CW, Jones L, Shiau J, Solano N, Drake JM, Murdock CC. Microclimate and Larval Habitat Density Predict Adult Aedes albopictus Abundance in Urban Areas. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 101:362-370. [PMID: 31190685 PMCID: PMC6685558 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.19-0220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, transmits several arboviruses of public health importance, including chikungunya and dengue. Since its introduction to the United States in 1985, the species has invaded more than 40 states, including temperate areas not previously at risk of Aedes-transmitted arboviruses. Mathematical models incorporate climatic variables in predictions of site-specific Ae. albopictus abundances to identify human populations at risk of disease. However, these models rely on coarse resolutions of environmental data that may not accurately represent the climatic profile experienced by mosquitoes in the field, particularly in climatically heterogeneous urban areas. In this study, we pair field surveys of larval and adult Ae. albopictus mosquitoes with site-specific microclimate data across a range of land use types to investigate the relationships between microclimate, density of larval habitat, and adult mosquito abundance and determine whether these relationships change across an urban gradient. We find no evidence for a difference in larval habitat density or adult abundance between rural, suburban, and urban land classes. Adult abundance increases with increasing larval habitat density, which itself is dependent on microclimate. Adult abundance is strongly explained by microclimate variables, demonstrating that theoretically derived, laboratory-parameterized relationships in ectotherm physiology apply to the field. Our results support the continued use of temperature-dependent models to predict Ae. albopictus abundance in urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle V Evans
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia.,Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Carl W Hintz
- Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Lindsey Jones
- Department of Biology, Albany State University, Albany, Georgia
| | - Justine Shiau
- Department of Infectious Disease, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Nicole Solano
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia.,Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - John M Drake
- Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia.,Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Courtney C Murdock
- Department of Infectious Disease, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia.,Center for Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia.,Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
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14
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Shragai T, Harrington L, Alfonso-Parra C, Avila F. Oviposition site attraction of Aedes albopictus to sites with conspecific and heterospecific larvae during an ongoing invasion in Medellín, Colombia. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:455. [PMID: 31533784 PMCID: PMC6751627 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3710-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus are two globally invasive vectors with similar ecological niches. Encounters between them can result in either competitive exclusion or stable co-existence, but it is unclear what drives these variable outcomes. Larval competition in favor of Ae. albopictus is a main hypothesis for the competitive exclusion of Ae. aegypti observed in some regions. However, the role of oviposition preference in determining the degree of competitive larval interactions in the field is not well understood. In this study, we used a combination of mark-release-recapture methods with ovitraps in the open-field and a semi-field cage to test whether gravid Ae. albopictus seek oviposition sites in response to the presence, species, and density of either conspecific or heterospecific Ae. aegypti larvae in the aquatic habitat. We conducted our study in Medellín, Colombia, where Ae. aegypti is a long-term resident and Ae. albopictus is a recent invader. Results In the open-field and semi-field cage experiments, gravid Ae. albopictus showed strong preference for ovitraps with larvae over those without. They consistently preferred ovitraps with higher density of conspecific (Ae. albopictus) larvae and low density of heterospecific (Ae. aegypti) larvae over traps with no larvae or high density of heterospecific (Ae. aegypti) larvae. In the semi-field cage experiment, traps with low density of Ae. albopictus were not preferred more or less than any other trap, but in the open-field experiment they were preferred over traps without larvae. Conclusions We demonstrate, through open-field and semi-field cage experiments, that Ae. albopictus are more attracted to oviposition sites with larvae and that the combination of species and density of larvae influence attraction. This demonstrated preference could increase interspecific larval competition as Ae. albopictus actively seek containers with conspecific and heterospecific larvae. Any resulting competition with Ae. aegypti may favor one species over the other and alter the distribution or abundance of both. Because these species vary in vectorial capacity and insecticide resistance, effects of interspecific competition could ultimately impact arbovirus transmission rates and the success of vector control efforts .
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Affiliation(s)
- Talya Shragai
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | | | - Catalina Alfonso-Parra
- Instituto Colombiano de Medicina Tropical, Universidad CES, Sabaneta, 055450, Antioquia, Colombia.,Max Planck Tandem Group in Mosquito Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, 050010, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Frank Avila
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Mosquito Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, 050010, Antioquia, Colombia
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