The effect of interspecific competition on the temporal dynamics of Aedes albopictus and Culex pipiens.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Aedes albopictus and Culex pipiens larvae reared in the same breeding site compete for resources, with an asymmetrical outcome that disadvantages only the latter species. The impact of these interactions on the overall ecology of these two species has not yet been assessed in the natural environment. In the present study, the temporal patterns of adult female mosquitoes from both species were analysed in north-eastern Italy, and substantial temporal shifts between abundance curves of Cx. pipiens and Ae. albopictus were observed in several sites. To understand which factors can drive the observed temporal shifts, we developed a mechanistic model that takes explicitly into account the effect of temperature on the development and survival of all mosquito stages. We also inc

SUBMITTER: Marini G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5322594 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature