Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Stegomyia albopicta - according to the new classification proposed by Reinert et al in 2004, but not universally accepted
Explanation of Names
The Asian Tiger Mosquito is so named because of its conspicuous stripes and its Asian origin.
Identification
The adults are easily recognized by their bold black shiny scales and distinct silver white scales on the palpus and tarsi. The scutum is black with a distinctive white stripe down the center beginning at the dorsal surface of the head and continuing along the thorax.
Range
Subtropical, with a temperate distribution in North America, and found primarily in southern and eastern states.
Habitat
These mosquitoes are often found near pools of standing water, typically in artificial containers.
Food
Adult females feed on the blood of birds, humans, and domestic & wild mammals.
The larvae feed on fine particulate organic matter in the water.
Life Cycle
Eggs are laid singly above the water surface on the sides of water-holding containers such as tires, animal watering dishes, birdbaths, flowerpots and natural holes in vegetation. Multiple generations per year; overwinters in the egg stage in temperate climates.
Remarks
The Asian tiger mosquito is an invasive and aggressive species that was introduced to the United States during the mid-1980s. It was first collected in Texas in 1985, apparently having traveled from Asia in a shipment of used tires. These mosquitoes are vicious biters and have been known to transmit disease.
Internet References
pinned adult image plus distribution, biology, etc. (Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit)
changes in names of Florida mosquitoes; PDF doc (John Reinert,
in Newsletter of the Florida Mosquito Control Association)
