Status of the invasive mosquito species Aedes aegypti (L., 1762) and Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1895) (Diptera: Culicidae) in Turkey

Abstract

Aedes aegypti (L., 1762) and Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1895) (Diptera: Culicidae) are important vectors of arboviruses. In Turkey, Ae. albopictus eggs were detected in the Thrace area of northwestern Turkey for the first time in 2011. In 2015, studies revealed the spread of Ae. albopictus and the first detection of Ae. aegypti within northeastern Turkey was reported. This paper reports the results of a survey of the presence and distribution of Ae. albopictus and Ae. aegypti in Turkey conducted over 5 years. As of 2019, monitoring studies were conducted on the presence of Ae. albopictus and Ae. aegypti in five geographical regions (Black Sea, Central Anatolia, Marmara, Mediterranean and Aegean Regions). A comprehensive range of potential larval habitats, such as tires, artificial containers, cemeteries, water bottles and natural breeding habitats, were assessed. In addition, standard ovitraps and adults' traps were used in some localities. This study showed that Ae. albopictus, in particular, expanded its distribution each year and has the potential to extend its range throughout Turkey over the next few years. In Turkey, the distribution of Ae. aegypti is currently limited to northeastern Turkey. Future work focused on determining more effective surveillance and control studies is discussed.