Invasion of the predatory mosquito Culex (Lutzia) fuscanus in the western desert parts of Rajasthan, India

Abstract

The breeding of Culex (Lutzia) fuscanus WIEDEMAN was recorded during entomological surveys in Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Bikaner. A detailed study of its biology has been carried out with reference to seasonal variation and breeding. Stable breeding populations of Culex fuscanus, a mosquito whose larvae are predacious and feed on other mosquito larvae, were found at seven localities in Jodhpur. Its larvae were found breeding in association with Anopheles, Aedes and Culex species in outdoor cemented tanks, mostly in the shade of trees. This is the first report of this species from the desert district of western Rajasthan.