Chemosensory Behaviors of Larval Aedes Triseriatus Mosquitoes

Abstract

Mosquitoes are predominant invertebrate vectors of parasitic diseases, including several prevalent public health concerns such as malaria, Zika, and lymphatic filariasis. Much of disease control research focuses on adult mosquitoes, which act as intermediate hosts, transmitting microscopic viruses and endoparasites via blood meals between vertebrate hosts. However, developing effective disease control may require greater focus on reducing survivability in other vulnerable stages of the vector’s life cycle, including the larval stages. We investigated the behaviors of early-stage Aedes triseriatus larvae, a species native to Wisconsin and the local vector for La Crosse virus, in response to primary exposure to chemical attractants. Using high-resolution cameras and 3D printed behavioral arenas, we have recorded larval physical activity. Furthermore, tracking larval movement during recordings was done using a custom analytical pipeline to collect quantitative data. As behavioral data is collected, larval navigation patterns in response to chemosensory cues may be used to inform vector control research such as responses to larvicidal chemicals.