<i>Toxorhynchites</i> Species: A Review of Current Knowledge

The increasing global incidence of mosquito-borne infections is driving a need for effective control methods. Vector populations have expanded their geographical ranges, while increasing resistance to chemical insecticides and a lack of effective treatments or vaccines has meant that the development...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Claire L. Donald, Padet Siriyasatien, Alain Kohl
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2020-10-01
Series:Insects
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4450/11/11/747
Description
Summary:The increasing global incidence of mosquito-borne infections is driving a need for effective control methods. Vector populations have expanded their geographical ranges, while increasing resistance to chemical insecticides and a lack of effective treatments or vaccines has meant that the development of vector control methods is essential in the fight against mosquito-transmitted diseases. This review will focus on <i>Toxorhynchites</i>, a non-hematophagous mosquito genus which is a natural predator of vector species and may be exploited as a biological control agent. Their effectiveness in this role has been strongly debated for many years and early trials have been marred by misinformation and incomplete descriptions. Here, we draw together current knowledge of the general biology of <i>Toxorhynchites</i> and discuss how this updated information will benefit their role in an integrated vector management program.
ISSN:2075-4450