The Yellow Fever Mosquito (Aedes aegypti)
The yellow fever mosquito, or Egyptian tiger mosquito, is widespread throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Scientists have given it the name Aedes aegypti. The species was once abundant in southern Europe, but disappeared after the 1950's. There are two main reasons for this. First, the development of a communal water supply and better sanitation diminished the number of breeding sites. Second, the intensive use of the insecticide DDT against malaria mosquitoes also killed off the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
Today there are only occasional reports of Aedes aegypti in Italy and Turkey, and there is also still a population of Aedes aegypti on the Portuguese island of Madeira.
The niche that was once occupied by Aedes aegypti has now been widely occupied by the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus. It breeds in very similar habitats that are in close proximity to humans. These include: water-filled flower pots, vases, buckets, water barrels, rain gutters, puddles, discarded cups and bottles, plants that hold small quantities of water, or any other stagnant waters. It is also an aggressive and persistent day biter and is very specialized to locate and bite human beings. It regularly enters houses looking for hosts or places to rest.
What does the yellow fever mosquito look like?
The yellow fever mosquito can be easily recognized by the broad whiterings on the hind legs and the silvery-white markingin the form of a lyre on its thorax (back). It is a medium sized mosquito with a blackish brown body.
What diseases do the Yellow fever mosquitoes transmit?
The Yellow fever mosquito is not only the main vector of Yellow fever, but also of Dengue fever . It also transmits Chikungunya .
Did You Know?
There is a vaccination against Yellow Fever, but so far none against Dengue Fever or Chikungunya.
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