Floodwater Mosquito
Order:
Diptera
Family: Culicidae
Species: Culex pipiens
Some
mosquito species are important vectors of disease.
Culex Pipiens is the
principal vector of Saint Louis encephalitis virus in the United States
and is one of the main vectors of dog heartworm.
Experts combine several cosmopolitan subspecies of C.
Pipiens into a
“Culex pipiens complex.”
The subspecies of the complex share the common characteristics
described below.
Biology and Habits
The adult C. pipiens has unique venation and striping on its abdomen (see drawing). Adult females deposit multiple eggs in “rafts” in a variety of aquatic situations. Suitable environments for developing larvae (wigglers) include clean waters as well as waters with a high percentage of organic matter. Common sites to inspect for larvae include artificial containers such as gutters, sewers, swimming pools, bird baths, rain barrels, and habitats where water naturally accumulates such as ditches, catch basins and cesspools.
Larval developmental time and survival rate depend on temperature, diet and population densities. Once larvae complete development, they molt into C-shaped pupae. The pupae are often referred to as “tumblers” because of their characteristic movements when disturbed. After the adults emerge, mating occurs. Females deposit eggs after ingesting a blood-meal.
Because
they are not aggressive, their presence cannot be indicated by the number
of complaints received.
However, these mosquitoes have the potential to transmit disease,
making them a noteworthy pest species.
Control
Steps to reduce mosquito populations include controlling larval and adult life stages, and eliminating breeding sites. If breeding sites cannot be eliminated, they may be treated with larvicides, insect growth regulators and Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti).
Adulticides may offer temporary relief from mosquitoes. Wettable powders applied to the underside of plants (and other locations where adults often rest) and ultra-low volume (ULV) treatments are two options for chemical control. Remember, before suggesting or implementing any chemical control measure, consult the product labels.
In
situations where breeding sites are located off of the premises, adult
mosquitoes may reenter an area despite control efforts.
Repellents may offer temporary relief from the mosquito annoyance.
(Courtesy of the National Pest Control Association.)