Asian tiger mosquito in the oil-producing city of Soyo: the first report of Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse, 1894) in Angola

Abstract Background The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894), is a highly invasive species that has successfully colonized many tropical and temperate regions worldwide. Its rapid global spread is strongly associated with human activities and has created favorable conditions for the...

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Main Authors: José Franco Martins, Arlete Dina Troco, Cátia Marques, Vicente Chipepa, Gonçalo Seixas, João Pinto, Luzala Garcia, Cani Pedro Jorge, Eusébio Manuel, Gonçalo Alves
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2025-03-01
Series:Parasites & Vectors
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s13071-025-06741-y
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Summary:Abstract Background The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894), is a highly invasive species that has successfully colonized many tropical and temperate regions worldwide. Its rapid global spread is strongly associated with human activities and has created favorable conditions for the emergence of human arboviruses in new geographic areas. Methods Mosquito larvae were collected by community health workers from different breeding sites and reared to adults in a field insectary. Adult mosquitoes were morphologically identified to species level. Species identification was confirmed by cytochrome oxidase subunit I DNA barcoding. Results We report the first detection of Aedes albopictus in Angola during an Anopheles stephensi survey conducted in Soyo, Zaire Province. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the Angolan Ae. albopictus population clusters with sequences from Central African countries, suggesting an introduction from within the continent. Conclusions The presence of Ae. albopictus in Angola highlights the need for enhanced vector surveillance and control measures to prevent the emergence of arboviral diseases. This finding emphasizes the relevance of collaboration between local health authorities, communities, and international organizations in monitoring the spread of invasive mosquito species.
ISSN:1756-3305