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Title
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Ecological interactions in Aedes and Culex mosquitoes : towards sustainable vector management in Europe
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Author
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Abstract
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| Invasive Aedes mosquitoes, such as the tiger mosquito (A. albopictus) and the Asian bush mosquito (A. japonicus), are known vectors for various viruses. One of the most significant consequences of these invasive mosquito infestations in Europe is the outbreak of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya. These invasive Aedes mosquitoes are known to spread to new areas due to climate change and globalization. Additionally, anthropization to the environment, such as urbanization and deforestation, are important drivers of their dispersal. These human interventions lead to biotic homogenization, resulting in reduced biodiversity. This results in a reduced competition with native mosquitoes and a decrease in predators that could limit the spread and establishment of invasive mosquitoes. Furthermore, there is an increase in insecticide resistance, making it more difficult to control mosquito populations. As a result, there is a growing need for alternative control methods, such as biological control. This thesis investigates the ecological interactions, competition dynamics, and implications for vector control strategies, with a particular focus on the invasive Aedes mosquitoes and native Culex species. The research covers interspecific larval competition, thermophilic preferences, and arboviral infection risks, demonstrating how larval competition among mosquito species affects their susceptibility for arboviruses. We found that Aedes albopictus larvae benefit from competing with Culex hortensis, potentially amplifying arbovirus transmission risks. Additionally, larval interactions among Aedes albopictus, Aedes japonicus, and Culex pipiens reveal metabolic and behavioral adaptations that increase susceptibility to arboviruses like chikungunya and West Nile virus. The insecticide resistance status in European Culex pipiens populations highlights the limitations of conventional mosquito control methods. Resistance to multiple insecticides, also found in Belgium, highlights the urgent need for innovative alternative approaches, including biological control. This research investigates the role of native predatory diving beetles as natural regulators of mosquito populations in Belgium, identifying Agabus bipustulatus as a highly effective predator for Aedes albopictus. In sum, this thesis emphasizes the importance of ecological interactions in understanding mosquito-borne disease risk and in developing sustainable mosquito control strategies. By integrating insights from larval competition, arboviral risks, and alternative control methods, it contributes to a broader understanding of vector ecology and offers novel approaches to mitigate the public health impacts of invasive mosquitoes in Europe. |
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Language
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English
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Publication
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Antwerp
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University of Antwerp, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology
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2025
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DOI
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10.63028/10067/2112910151162165141
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Volume/pages
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215 p.
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Note
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Müller, Ruth [Supervisor]
:
Leirs, Herwig [Supervisor]
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Full text (open access)
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The publisher created published version Available from 13.01.2026
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