Investigation on key aspects of mating biology in the mosquitoAedes koreicus

Abstract

Aedes koreicusis a mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae) from Northeast Asia with a rapidly expanding presence outside its original native range. Over the years the species has been discovered in several new countries, either spreading after first introduction or remaining localised to limited areas. Notably, recent studies have demonstrated the ability of the species to transmit zoonotic parasites and viruses both in the field and in laboratory settings. Combined with its invasive potential, the possible role ofAe. koreicusin pathogen transmission highlights the public health risks of its invasion. In this study, we used a recently established population from Italy to investigate aspects of biology that influence reproductive success inAe. koreicus: autogeny, mating behaviour, mating disruption by the sympatric invasive speciesAedes albopictus, and the presence of the endosymbiontWolbachia pipientis. Our laboratory population did not exhibit autogenic behaviour and required a blood meal to complete its ovarian cycle. When we exposedAe. koreicusfemales to males ofAe. albopictus, we observed repeated attempts at insemination and an aggressive, disruptive mating behaviour initiated by males. Despite this, no sperm was identified inAe. koreicusspermathecae. Wolbachia was not detected in thisAe. koreicuspopulation and therefore had no effect onAe. koreicusreproduction.