Ecology And Survival Studies, And Detection Of Chikungunya Virus In Aedes albopictus (SKUSE) (Diptera: Culicidae)
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Date
2017-08
Authors
Harun, Rozilawati
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Publisher
Universiti Sains Malaysia
Abstract
This study covered some aspects of the bionomics of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) including the ecology and biology for its survival. Entomological surveillance was conducted in several selected dengue outbreak localities in Selangor, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur and Penang Island using ovitrap and larval survey methods. It was determined that there is currently no change in the breeding preference of Ae. albopictus. Even though it can also be found indoor, either with single or mix infestation with Aedes aegypti, it was still significantly breeding more outdoor than indoor. Various breeding containers were found, but the most predominant were plastic containers. More mosquitoes were collected through ovitrap than larval survey, however it is strongly suggested that the surveillance of the mosquitoes to be continuously performed using standard ovitrap and larval survey since both techniques has its own advantages. The life demographics of Ae. albopictus including the development period, survival rate, mortality rate, and reproductive capability were also determined under controlled laboratory conditions using laboratory and field strains. A cohort life table was constructed. The effect of constant temperature on Ae. albopictus survival was also determined. The mosquitoes were able to survive until complete development of the third instar larvae at 40°C, an indicator of survival capability at high temperature. Increased temperature decreased the development period and longevity, however based on the survival analysis they can survive and adapt well to each temperature tested. It can be concluded that constant temperature does not affect the survival capability of Ae. albopictus. The oviposition behaviour in relation to skip oviposition and the effect of pre-existing conspecific were also determined. Skip oviposition occurred with the availability of breeding sites. The pre-existence of conspecific eggs, larvae or pupae did not significantly influence the oviposition preference of Ae. albopictus since it will oviposit eggs in any available containers regardless of the densities of existing conspecifics. It can be concluded that the presence of suitable breeding containers will exert a stronger influence than the conspecific eggs and immature stages on the oviposition site selection behaviour of Ae. albopictus. Entomological investigations were also conducted in selected chikungunya transmission localities in Peninsular Malaysia. Mosquitoes were collected using modified aspirator, sweep net and larval survey. Aedes albopictus was the predominant mosquito species collected in the localities. Only five pools containing adult females Ae. albopictus were positive for the chikungunya virus as detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Three isolates were obtained and grouped with the Central/East African genotype. This finding highlighted the role of Ae. albopictus as the vector of chikungunya in our country.
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Keywords
Ecology and survival studies , and detection of chikungunya virus