The diel copulation periodicity of the mosquito, Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) at indoor and outdoor sites in Trinidad, West Indies

Abstract

The diel copulation periodicity of domestic Aedes aegypti in the field in Trinidad, West Indies was monitored weekly at indoor and outdoor sites over a 16 month period. At indoor sites two significant (P<0.02) peaks in copulation occurred between 06.00 and 08.00 (25% of copulation events) and between 16.00 and 18.00 (24%): at outdoor sites the copulation periodicity was similar to that observed indoors with an early morning peak in copulation at 06.00-08.00 (30%) and a late evening peak at 16.00-18.00 h (25%). Laboratory studies showed similar copulation patterns to those observed at indoor and outdoor sites. Copulation occurred at two different locations: at outdoor sites copulation was primarily in close proximity to breeding sites while at indoor sites copulation was observed in close proximity to human bait or members of the household. The parity rate of copulating females collected indoors was 59% in contrast to only 15% collected outdoors, which suggests that females found indoors were older. The diel copulation periodicity, location where copulation occurs, parous rates and insemination rates are discussed in the context of sterile insect technique or genetic control modalities.

Keywords: Aedes aegypti; Copulation periodicity; Indoors and Outdoors; Laboratory; Trinidad; West Indies.