A warming welcome? Belgium's increasing suitability for Aedes albopictus.

ABSTRACT: Aedes albopictus, commonly known as the Asian tiger mosquito, is an invasive species of significant public health concern due to its ability to transmit dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. Since arriving in Europe in the late 1970s, this mosquito species has progressively expanded its range, with Belgium marking an important step in its northward spread. The increasing frequency of its introduction raises the urgent question of whether Ae. albopictus could become permanently present in the country. This study investigates the potential for the establishment of Ae. albopictus populations in Belgium using a mechanistic model and assessing the likelihood of successful establishment based on simulated introduction events. Our results indicate that the probability of establishment is highest

SUBMITTER: Da Re D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12659590 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature