Mosquito ecology in relation to land-use changes and potential West Nile virus in Newfoundland

Hustins, Sarah. (2006) Mosquito ecology in relation to land-use changes and potential West Nile virus in Newfoundland. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The last extensive mosquito survey of insular Newfoundland was carried out in the early 1980s. Increased urban and agricultural development have locally increased the productivity of mosquito habitats and thus provided opportunity for colonization by additional species. The recent introduction of West Nile virus to North America and changing local climate has prompted renewed research on mosquitoes and the impact of human activity on them in Newfoundland. The research objective was to redefine species composition and evaluate the impact of land-use on mosquitoes. Data were obtained by a survey of three cities and two agricultural areas as well as natural habitat using a standard dip method for larvae and CO₂ baited miniature light traps for adults. A horse serum survey was performed to detect the presence of the virus through ELISA antibody screening, in addition to the National corvid surveillance program serving as an indicator for virus activity. Three additional mosquito species were recorded, including Culex pipiens L. (Diptera: Culicidae). The research provided the data needed to estimate the level of risk for human and animal exposure to West Nile virus. Such information will be essential if the risk of vectored disease transmission increases due to enhanced mosquito breeding seasons.

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