The Collier Mosquito Control District (CMCD) has discovered its ninth new species of mosquito since 2019, according to the district. Aedeomyia squamipennis , a native South American insect, was located in a mosquito trap in the Seminole State Park in the Florida Everglades.
"Our science team goes through those traps that we set out in the field, and they're doing that because they need to know what kind of mosquito is out there and how much of those mosquitoes are out there. Then, we can tailor our treatments to those particular mosquitoes. It was a mosquito that we don't see in our traps," said Dr. Keira Lucas, the deputy executive director.
Aedeomyia squamipennis is known by its:
- Freckled body
- Beaded and hook-shaped antenna
"It's just part of our general surveillance now. We have over 50 species of mosquito, and it's just another one that we continue to track," said Lucas.
The insect also is known to carry two infectious diseases:
"It's just important that we have skilled, trained staff that can identify new species. Especially if one of those does present a severe public health risk," said Lucas.
Aedeomyia squamipennis is typically attracted to the invasive plant water lettuce, commonly found in canals across Collier County. The insects are able to utilize the plants to breathe underwater and protect themselves from predators.
"In particular, you're going to see this in canals, in ditches in the Immokalee, Ave Maria area, but it's throughout the entire state. We expect this mosquito to move north because there is an abundance of habitat," said Lucas.
Thus far, it's too early to tell if the newly found mosquito is spreading in Collier County, according to the district. Staff will continue to surveil hard-hit areas.