Surveillance of Exotic Mosquitoes in Alicante Airport (Southeastern Spain)

Abstract:
Globalization is a major causal agent for the introduction of exotic species into new territories. In this regard, it is well known that air traffic is an ideal route for the arrival of mosquitoes to new countries and even new continents. In order to evaluate the possible arrival of allochthonous vectors to the Iberian Peninsula, a mosquito’s surveillance system was established in the airport of L’Altet (Alicante, Southeastern Spain). This airport was selected due to its abundant fly connections with Europe and North Africa. In addition, the study area has a high average temperature (about 18 degrees Celsius), which maximizes the chances of a hypothetical establishment of tropical vector tropical. Moreover, it is important to note that an exotic vector, Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito), has been recently detected in surrounding areas. Samplings were carried out with the use of BG-Sentinel® traps (to catch adults) and oviposition traps (to catch eggs and larvae) properly located in the most suitable places to ensure the captures. All the information about the species collected during 2010 and 2011, as well as the effectiveness of different catching strategies, will be deeply discussed. The ultimate goal is to lay the groundwork for the creation of an entomological surveillance network at airports statewide.