Surveillance and behavioral investigations of Aedes aegypti and Aedes polynesiensis in Moorea, French Polynesia, using a sticky ovitrap

Abstract

The effectiveness of the sticky ovitrap was assessed for the container-breeding Aedes aegypti and Aedes polynesiensis in Moorea, French Polynesia. These mosquitoes are the primary vectors of dengue viruses and Bancroftian filariasis, respectively, in the area. Both Ae. aegypti and Ae. polynesiensis were collected in greatest numbers in sticky ovitraps baited with water or grass infusions rather than leaf infusions. Sticky ovitrap collections were significantly higher for both species in the 12 h post-midday than pre-midday and in traps set in shaded compared with open locations. More females of Ae. aegypti were collected in ovitraps at west-facing walls, although Ae. polynesiensis collected at east- or west-facing traps did not differ in number. Female Ae. aegypti (bloodfed, marked, and released for oviposition) were readily recaptured (19-26%) by sticky ovitraps, exhibiting movement of up to 30 m, and between outdoor and indoor situations. Overall, the sticky ovitrap proved an effective tool for investigating the oviposition behavior and dispersal of these container-breeding species.