OBSERVATIONS ON THE BIOLOGY AND BEHAVIOUR OF ARMIGERES MILNENSIS LEE (DIPTERA: CULICIDAE) IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Abstract

Using a novel trap, the oviposition, emergence pattern and biting cycle of an isolated population of Armigeres milnensis from coastal Papua New Guinea, were determined. Biting and oviposition occurred primarily at dusk with a minor peak at dawn. Emergence of both sexes occurred throughout the diel. Polynomial regression analysis revealed that time of day was a better predictor of biting activity than light intensity. Nevertheless, biting was initiated during a mid‐afternoon eclipse of the sun. Follicle maturation, following a blood meal, was most rapid at temperatures in the range 26–29 C. At lower temperatures, the rate of development was significantly slower and at 32 C development was arrested. Adult survival rates were low, 160 of 196 females dissected being nulliparous, the oldest being 4‐parous. The results are discussed with reference to the potential transmission of filariasis by Ar. milnensis. Copyright © 1985, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved