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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Gainesville, Florida » Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology » Mosquito and Fly Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #290316
Title: The USDA-ARS area-wide project for management of the asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus

Author
item Kline, Daniel - Dan
item Clark, Gary

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/28/2013
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, is among the most invasive species in the world. Established in the U.S. since 1985, this species now infests 30 states and continues to spread internationally. Concerned public health officials recognize this species as an important vector of chikungunya and dengue viruses and it is regarded as the most significant nuisance mosquito across its range. In response to this situation, the USDA Agricultural Research Service obtained funding in 2007 to establish an “area-wide” project focused on the management and control of this species. The project was designed to be a unique federal, state, local collaboration based at the Center for Vector Ecology at Rutgers University. Carefully planned and implemented research projects with Mercer and Monmouth Counties has served to evaluate and develop enhanced methods for surveillance and control of this species. Research has included exploration of the role of educational efforts in controlling mosquitoes, definition of urban production sources in urban areas, and efficacy of different adult control measures. A novel aspect of this project was the partnership with economists at Brandeis University in Waltham, MA to study the willingness to pay for enhanced mosquito control, among other economic issues. Results and “lessons learned” during this 5-year project are presented in this symposium along with initial results of project extension to several US states.