Plant sugar feeding preferences in Florida Culex quinquefasciatus

Monday, November 11, 2024

12:06 PM – 12:18 PM MST

Location: Phoenix Convention Center, 221 B, PCC

Presenting Author(s)

MM

Mba-tihssommah Mosore

University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida

Co-Author(s)

SM

Shova Mishra

University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
AE

Alden Estep

USDA-ARS
Gainesville, Florida
EB

Edwin R. Burgess, IV

Principal Investigator
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida

In addition to blood feeding, plant feeding plays a crucial role in mosquito biology, providing energy necessary for survival, flight, and reproduction. Sugar sources from plants impact fecundity, with mosquitoes displaying preferences for certain plants, presenting opportunities for innovative control strategies. Here we focus on the plant sugar feeding ecology of the southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, across the state of Florida. Utilizing next-generation sequencing, we have identified the specific Florida plants associated with these mosquitoes. Understanding the plant sugar-feeding habits of Culex quinquefasciatus can significantly enhance targeted control efforts. By identifying and potentially manipulating the preferred plant species, it may be possible to develop more effective mosquito management strategies, ultimately reducing the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases.