Monitoring the spread and seasonal abundance of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae), in Limassol, Cyprus

Abstract

In the era of globalization, the emergence and re‐emergence of vector‐borne diseases are a public health concern. Aedes albopictus was introduced in the city of Limassol, Cyprus, in 2022. Herein, we present information on the seasonal dynamics of Ae. albopictus from 2022 to 2024 by actively monitoring the locations where Ae. albopictus was first reported by citizens. Our two‐year field trapping scheme shows that despite any control interventions, Ae. albopictus continues to spread. Female Ae. albopictus abundance is influenced by maximum temperature, daylight duration and location, while sex ratio (male‐to‐female) depends on temperature, wind speed and location. Aedes albopictus shows strong seasonal activity, peaking during the summer–autumn period (June to October/November), within activity during winter and early spring months (February to mid‐April 2023 and February 2024). This is the first study on the seasonal dynamics of Ae. albopictus for Cyprus through which we would like to underscore the need for tailored mosquito management strategies, along with active citizen participation in monitoring and control interventions.