Examining the Blood-Feeding Interactions During Intra- and Interspecific Adult Competition between Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti -a Laboratory Study

Abstract

Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti are striped mosquitoes with similar behavioral characteristics. They are known vectors of dangerous arboviruses and are expanding their reach globally. These species have established in specific areas of Türkiye, with Ae. albopictus expanding significantly than Ae. aegypti. While the larval competition of these two mosquito species has been studied, not much is known about their interactions during adulthood. We first investigated the effects of interspecific and intraspecific larval competition on the survival rate into adulthood and the wing length of females and males in containers of different sizes and food level conditions. This research also explored how females of these mosquitoes compete for blood meals in confined environments and its effects on blood feeding rates and female fecundity. Larval competition hinders Ae. aegypti emergence, Ae. albopictus remains resilient across varying resource levels. Notably, both species displayed increased blood feeding rates when housed together, suggesting potential facilitation or competitive avoidance strategies. Interspecific pressure caused a decrease in the number of eggs laid in mixed species cages for Ae. aegypti only. This study highlights the complex competitive dynamics between Ae. albopictus and Ae. aegypti. While larval competition appears to affect Ae. aegypti emergence. Further understanding of adult interactions is crucial for predicting their co-occurrence and effectively managing their populations, especially as Ae. albopictus shows greater adaptability and expansion within Türkiye.