Characterization of the microbiome ofAedes albopictuspopulations in different habitats from Spain and São Tomé: implications for vector control

Abstract

The mosquito microbiome significantly influences vector competence, including inAedes albopictus, a globally invasive ectoparasite. Describing the microbiome andWolbachiastrains ofAe. albopictusfrom different regions can guide area-specific control strategies. Mosquito samples from Spain and São Tomé were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metagenomic sequencing.Wolbachiainfection was genotyped, and statistical analysis compared infection patterns by sex and population. Results revealed a dominance of dualWolbachiainfections in the microbiome of both populations ofAe. albopictus, especially among females. The two populations presented a shared microbiome, although 5 and 9 other genera were only present in Spain and São Tomé populations, respectively. Genera likePelomonasandNevskiawere identified for the first time inAedesmosquitoes. This study is the first to describe theAe. albopictusbacteriome in Spain and São Tomé, offering insights for the development of targeted mosquito control strategies.