P-29 - Treatment Prioritization of Larval Habitats for Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

Abstract: The large number of mosquito larval habitats identified in New Orleans creates considerable challenges for the New Orleans Mosquito, Termite, and Rodent Control Board (NOMTRCB). Mosquito control agencies often have limited resources and need data to guide the prioritization of high-risk habitats for mosquito production. This prioritization is crucial, especially after a weather event, to prevent increases in vector populations and safeguard public health. During the summer of 2023, NOMTRCB evaluated differences in development and adult life history traits across habitat types in Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus, two of the most common vectors in the Gulf Coast region. Mosquitoes were raised in laboratory microcosms designed to mimic three common larval habitats in New Orleans: waste tires, construction sites, and nonfunctional fountains. Detritus and water samples were collected from sites in the field. First-instar, laboratory-reared Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus were placed in intra- and interspecific density combinations in rearing containers with the field-collected detritus and water. Larvae were allowed up to 30 days to develop under standard laboratory conditions. Development time, adult survival, and wing length of adults were recorded. The results from this study will elucidate differences in life history traits among co-occurring vectors in various natural habitats that are common in New Orleans. The findings have the potential to influence operational decisions by establishing guidelines for prioritizing larval treatments based on the relative risks of adult vector production among habitat types.