Reverse chemical ecology approach for the identification of an oviposition attractant for<i>Culex quinquefasciatus</i>

Abstract

Significance Surveillance of mosquito populations is essential for determining the best timing for intervention as well as for monitoring circulation of new and previously detected pathogens. Trapping gravid females is more effective because they are more likely to be infected than nongravid females. However, better gravid trap attractants are sorely needed to replace fermentation recipes, which are cumbersome, have poor quality control, generate an offensive smell, and do not provide a long-term and consistent source of attractants. By using a reverse chemical ecology approach based on odorant receptors from the southern house mosquito, we have identified that acetaldehyde in a wide range of doses both attracts gravid female mosquitoes and stimulates them to lay eggs in oviposition trays.