Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse) (Diptera : Culicidae) in Malta - the first winter

Abstract

Subsequent to the discovery of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) in Malta in September 2009, an attempt was made to investigate the mosquito’s presence and behaviour during the winter following its discovery. The objective was to determine if the species had survived its first winter, and, if so, whether adults and/or immature stages were active during that period. Oviposition was last observed at the end of October. Larvae and pupae developed in the ovitraps throughout the winter and adult emergence of Ae. albopictus continued despite the apparent absence of adults in field surveys during this period. Control measures may therefore be applied continuously throughout the year. Adult biting activity in winter was not observed in this study. Should this be documented in future, however, then potential transmission of arboviruses like chikungunya and dengue must be considered possible throughout the whole year.