Distribution of the members of the Pipiens Assemblage in the sympatric area from Argentina: which is where and when?

MARÍA VICTORIA CARDO; ALEJANDRA RUBIO; JUNGES M.T.; DARÍO VEZZANI; CARBAJO ANÍBAL E.

MEMóRIAS DO INSTITUTO OSWALDO CRUZ.

FUNDACO OSWALDO CRUZ

Lugar: Rio de Janeiro; Año: 2016 vol. 111 p. 676 - 685

0074-0276

Given their medical and veterinary relevance, the members of the Pipiens Assemblage are a worldwide targetof ecological research. The distribution of Culex pipiens s.s. and Cx. quinquefasciatus converge in Buenos Aires,Argentina, where hybrids have been detected. Each member of the assemblage exhibits a distinct eco-physiologicalbehaviour that can affect its efficiency in pathogen transmission. Our aim was to identify the environmental driversfor the spatio-temporal distribution of each member, focusing on latitudinal and urbanisation gradients. Immaturesof mosquitoes were surveyed in artificial containers found within 11 public cemeteries, raised up to the adult stageand identified by their male genitalia. The distribution of each member was associated with the environment in aGeneralized Linear Model. The variable accounting for most of the heterogeneity was latitude; Cx. quinquefasciatuswas collected more frequently at northern cemeteries, whereas Cx. pipiens and hybrids were more likely at thesouthern extreme. The urbanisation gradient was also associated with the occurrence of Cx. quinquefasciatus andhybrids at the high and low end, respectively. Other relevant variables were cemetery total area, the proportion withgraves and the presence of plastic flowers in the containers. The spatial distribution of the members of the PipiensAssemblage within the sympatric region in South America is driven by environmental features. The information presentedherein provides essential baseline data for surveillance programs and control activities.