Specific phytochemicals in floral nectar up‐regulate genes involved in longevity regulation and xenobiotic metabolism, extending mosquito life span

Abstract

Flowering plants secrete both floral and extra-floral nectars, which play important ecological roles as attractants and food rewards for mutualists. Floral nectar is produced inside the flower while extrafloral nectar is secreted by other vegetative parts of the plant and is commonly involved in indirect defense against herbivores (Nepi et al., 2018). Floral nectar is the principal reward for animals in

Exploring the effects of caffeine on Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) survival and fecundity

“…However, we only found evidence of these effects at significantly higher caffeine concentrations in comparison to Njoroge et al's findings that saw feeding deterrence and decreased survival at relatively lower caffeine levels. Additionally, our fecundity results are inconsistent with previous findings that caffeine increases oviposition (Njoroge et al 2021). This may be due to differences in methodology, particularly the use of blood in our study instead of sucrose solutions.…”

“…Our general consensus that caffeine may be a feeding deterrent that also decreases survival is consistent with previous findings (Njoroge et al 2021). However, we only found evidence of these effects at significantly higher caffeine concentrations in comparison to Njoroge et al's findings that saw feeding deterrence and decreased survival at relatively lower caffeine levels.…”

“…A recent study reported that caffeine concentrations comparable to levels found in nectar increased female oviposition, decreased sugar consumption, and decreased Ae. albopictus survival at higher concentrations (Njoroge et al 2021). Another study found that female Ae.…”