ARS | Publication request: Changes in host orientation behavior of female mosquitoes treated with a sublethal pyrethroid exposure

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: December 15, 2010
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Adult mosquito control consists of barrier treatments and areal spraying often using pyrethroids, however not all host seeking insects contacting insecticides are killed. Sublethal exposure to neurotoxic compounds can negatively affect sensory organs reducing their efficiency for locating hosts. Female Aedes aegypti, Anopheles albimanus and Culex quinquefasciatus were exposed to LD25 levels of pyrethroid treatments and changes in flight orientation towards host odors subsequently evaluated. Significant behavioral changes are discussed in the context of adult mosquito control and disease transmission.