Characterization of overwintering sites (hibernacula) of the West Nile vector Culex pipiens in Central Italy.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In cool-temperate regions, mosquitoes face winter conditions that hinder their development. To cope with cold temperatures, species like Culex pipiens, a major vector of West Nile virus (WNV), diapause as adult females in overwintering shelters known as hibernacula. This study aimed to identify and characterize the overwintering sites of Cx. pipiens in central Italy, analyzing the environmental factors influencing the abundance of the two biological forms, Cx. pipiens pipiens and Cx. pipiens molestus.

Methods

Field surveys were conducted in Lazio and Tuscany over two consecutive winters (2022/2023 and 2023/2024). Overwintering mosquitoes were collected from different hibernacula types, including natural caves, artificial cavities and buildings. Environmental varia

SUBMITTER: Romiti F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11852880 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature