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Director of Research Rebecca Heinig, Ph.D., CMCD scientists count and sort mosquitoes from
describes the golden color of the invasive traps, separating them by species. They have
Culex lactator mosquito. identified more than 50 species in Collier County.

What does a newly identified mosquito mean for Collier County?

by Patrick Linn, MS, MSHAPI
Executive Director, Collier Mosquito Control District
mosquito species from South A few years ago, district scientists identified Aedes scapularis in
A some of our local traps. This species typically calls the Caribbean
America and the Caribbean is now
calling Collier County home. The
home. While we can only surmise how it arrived here, it is
Culex lactator was found in our traps and now thriving in south Florida. This mosquito can carry dog
identified in 2022. Since then, we’re seeing heartworm, yellow fever, lymphatic filariasis, and Venezuelan
them in numbers that indicate they have Equine Encephalitis. Discovery of various species of mosquitoes
become well-established in our area. in locations outside of their typically known habitats – such as the
Should we be alarmed by its presence? Aedes scapularis and Culex lactator – demonstrates the dynamic
The scientific community isn’t sure about this mosquito because nature of the planet’s ecology. Of the more than 50 species already
not much research is available. In fact, it’s unknown whether identified in Collier County, there are less than 10 which are
it even seeks blood meals from humans. The Culex lactator capable of spreading disease. Thus, we monitor and engage in
mosquitoes discovered in the Miami area in 2018 were found to control efforts of those genera and species associated with human
have birds’ blood in their systems. and animal disease.
Are we taking any action to control this “new-to-us” Given the continued discoveries of genera and species
mosquito? No, not specifically. As with other mosquito species historically endemic to other locales, there exists a high probability
that are known to spread disease, Collier Mosquito Control that other invasive mosquito species will establish populations
District scientists are monitoring Culex lactator to determine its in southwest Florida. They could bring diseases that historically
habitat and prevalence until conclusive research is available. haven’t been of concern in our state. Additionally, depending upon
What we do know is that it’s a member of the Culex family the type of blood meal they seek, they could provide an increased
of mosquitoes, which has more than 750 species worldwide. risk of new diseases in both animals and humans.
In Collier County, the Culex quinquefasciatus and Culex In conclusion, while the identification of Culex lactator doesn’t
nigripalpus are present, closely monitored, and tested in our cause alarm for Florida’s mosquito control agencies, it most
laboratory for the presence of West Nile virus and St. Louis certainly merits vigilance in monitoring its populations, potential
encephalitis, which those species can carry. In 2020 and 2021, for disease transmission, and need for control. Already at the heart
a few Collier residents contracted West Nile virus from these of our mission of protecting public health and comfort, the Collier
mosquitoes. Mosquito Control District is working hard to stay ahead of any
The awareness of this mosquito’s presence in our area is potential threat. Our focus on protecting the health and well-
important because southwest Florida’s subtropical environment being of residents and visitors directly, positively impacts Florida’s
provides a viable habitat for Culex lactator and other invasive economy and quality of life.
mosquitoes to become well-established. The world is a much Want to know more about the science behind mosquito control?
smaller place thanks to factors such as global tourism and Looking for someone to speak at your group’s next meeting? Visit our
international commerce, which have most likely led to other website at cmcd.org or call 239.436.1000
species making their way to Collier County. Our ecology, the
availability of blood meals, and abundantly warm temperatures
help mosquitoes thrive here.

Life in Naples | May/June/July 71