Influence of rearing-water temperature on life stages’ vector attributes, distribution and utilisation of metabolic reserves in Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae): implications for disease transmission and vector control

Abstract

Background: This study aims at determining the effects of rearing water temperature on immature development, adult vectorial attributes and teneral accumulation in Culex quinquefasciatus (Cx. quinquefasciatus) mosquitoes. Immature life stages of the species were reared (to adulthood) in water media with temperature regimens of 28, 30, 32 and 34 °C generated and maintained by digital electrical thermostats. Immature and adult vectorial attributes (i.e. duration of development, growth rates, immature and adult survivorship, emergence rates and adult longevity), and rates of accumulation, distribution and utilisation (for pupation and eclosion) of teneral reserve (lipid, glucose, glycogen and protein) by life stages of the species were determined.