Ochlerotatus
Ochlerotatus
Ochlerotatus is a genus of mosquitoes belonging to the family Culicidae. This genus was previously considered a subgenus of the genus Aedes, but was elevated to the status of a separate genus based on phylogenetic studies. Members of the Ochlerotatus genus are known for their role as vectors in the transmission of various diseases, including West Nile virus, dengue fever, and yellow fever.
Taxonomy[edit | edit source]
The genus Ochlerotatus was established by Reinert in 2000, following a comprehensive review of the Aedes genus. The reclassification was based on morphological and genetic data that suggested significant differences between the two groups. The genus name "Ochlerotatus" is derived from Greek, meaning "troublesome" or "annoying," which reflects the pestiferous nature of these mosquitoes.
Morphology[edit | edit source]
Ochlerotatus mosquitoes are characterized by their distinctive scale patterns on the thorax and abdomen, as well as their wing venation. They are generally smaller than other mosquito genera, with a more slender body. The larvae of Ochlerotatus species are typically found in temporary water bodies, such as rain pools and floodwaters.
Life Cycle[edit | edit source]
The life cycle of Ochlerotatus mosquitoes includes four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The eggs are laid on moist substrates and can withstand desiccation for extended periods. Upon flooding, the eggs hatch into larvae, which undergo several molts before pupating. The pupal stage is a transitional phase leading to the emergence of the adult mosquito.
Medical Importance[edit | edit source]
Ochlerotatus mosquitoes are of significant medical importance due to their role as vectors of arboviruses. They are known to transmit:
These diseases pose serious public health challenges, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.
Control and Prevention[edit | edit source]
Controlling Ochlerotatus populations involves integrated pest management strategies, including:
- Source reduction by eliminating standing water
- Use of larvicides in breeding habitats
- Application of adulticides during outbreaks
- Personal protective measures, such as insect repellent and bed nets
Also see[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
