Aedes caspius is a species of mosquito found across much of Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East, especially in coastal or marshy areas.[1] This mosquito is known for its aggressive biting and potential to spread certain diseases, making it a concern in regions where it is common.
Adult Aedes caspius mosquitoes are medium-sized, typically around 5mm in length, and can be identified by the following features:
Thorax: Golden scales with narrow white lines along the center.
Abdomen: Often shows a pale central stripe or appears fully pale-scaled.
Wings: Covered in dark and light scales; the front edge (costa) is mostly dark.
Legs: Segments III1–4 have pale bands at both ends, creating a ringed appearance.[2]
Females feed on the blood of mammals, including humans, while males feed only on nectar and plant juices. These feeding behaviors help distinguish A. caspius from similar species during field studies.
Lifecycle
Aedes caspius can produce several generations per year. Females lay eggs in temporary pools, such as marshes or rice fields. The eggs can stay dormant until floodwaters trigger hatching.[3] In areas with temperate climates, larvae appear from early spring to autumn. Adult activity usually peaks between April and November, depending on rainfall and temperature.
Medical Importance
This species is considered a potential vector for several viruses:
West Nile virus (WNV): Can infect birds, horses, and humans. Detected in parts of Europe.[4]
Rift Valley fever (RVF): A virus mainly affecting livestock, but also transmissible to people.
Tahyna virus (TAHV): Can cause febrile illness in humans; in rare cases, more severe symptoms like meningitis may develop.[5]
Myxoma virus: Affects rabbits. Although A. caspius has been found carrying it, its role in spreading the virus is unclear.
Research has also examined the vector competence of A. caspius for Zika virus. Experimental studies using European populations found that, although the mosquitoes could become infected, they did not develop disseminated infections or transmit the virus via saliva. This indicates a strong midgut escape barrier (MEB) that blocks ZIKV transmission, suggesting that A. caspius is unlikely to be a competent vector for Zika virus in Europe.[6]
Aside from disease concerns, its bites can be extremely irritating, with people in affected areas often reporting dozens or even hundreds of bites in a single day.
Habitat and Distribution
Aedes caspius prefers habitats that are periodically flooded, including coastal salt marshes, rice paddies, and irrigation ditches.[4] It is salt-tolerant and can breed in both brackish and freshwater environments. The species is widespread in the Western Palaearctic region, including much of Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East. In Italy, large populations are found in the Po River Delta, where rice cultivation creates ideal breeding conditions.[7]
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), over 1,600 new sightings were recorded between August and October 2023.[8]
Behavior
Aedes caspius mosquitoes are mostly active during the day, with peak biting periods around sunrise and sunset.[9] They are capable of flying more than 20 kilometers from where they hatched, which allows them to affect areas far from their original breeding sites. This long-range movement contributes to their role in disease transmission and makes them a common nuisance even in urban or suburban locations.
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