Aedes koreicus

Aedes koreicus is a mosquito species originally described from Korea^[1] that has been shown to be enzootic to Japan, northeastern China, the Republic of Korea (South Korea) and parts of Russia,^[2] but recently found in Belgium and Italy.^[3] Adult Aedes koreicus are relatively large, with areas of white scales on black background, strongly resembling Aedes japonicus, which has also become established outside its native range.^[2]

Bionomics

Aedes koreicus larvae have been found breeding in artificial water collection sites such as garden ponds, water drums, manholes, buckets, flower pots, discarded tires, and other water-containing vessels, as well as in natural collection sites such as tree holes, stone cavities, road tracks, and ditches, in either clear or organics-rich water.^[2] These characteristics adapt it to surviving transport over long distances and exploiting urban as well as periurban habitats.^[2]

The first documentation of Aedes koreicus becoming established outside its native range was in Belgium in 2008, marking it as an invasive species capable of being globally transported.^[4] In 2011 it was discovered to be established in the Province of Belluno, Veneto region, Italy^[5] and in 2013 in the Swiss-Italian border region.^[6] Given its demonstrated ability to survive northern European winters and benefit from human-aided transport, the species may be introduced and become established in other temperate countries with similar climates to those where it has already become established.^[2][7]

Medical Importance

Aedes koreicus adults feed on humans, domestic animals, and farm animals during day and night hours^[2] and have been demonstrated to be competent vectors of Japanese encephalitis virus and dog heartworm, and a potential vector of other arboviruses, and Brugia malayi, which causes lymphatic filariasis.^[2][5][6]

References