Scientific Name:  Aedes japonicus, subgenus Ochlerotatus

Common Name:  Asian Bush Mosquito

Photo taken by Mosquito Control Staff

Adults of Aedes japonicus are medium sized, have brown, white and gold marking. The females feed mainly on the blood of mammals, including humans. They are persistent biters and attack when the vegetation where they rest is disturbed. They attack mostly during evening hours but will bite virtually any time of the day. This mosquito has been found positive for West Nile virus on a number of occasions in the US.  Laboratory studies show it is a competent vector of West Nile virus Laboratory. Currently studies have also shown Aedes japonicus to be a competent carrier of Japanese encephalitis virus , La Crosse virus and a moderately effective vector of Saint Louis encephalitis, Eastern equine encephalitis virus , Chikungunya virus,  Dengue virus and Rift Valley fever . (http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/healthtopics/vectors/mosquitoes/Pages/aedes-japonicus.aspx)

The larvae are mostly encountered in discarded tires, rock pools and unattended birdbaths. The flight range is up to 600 feet.

References:  Burkett-Cadena, N.D.  2013.  Mosquitoes of the Southeastern United States.  Tuscaloosa, Alabama: The University of Alabama Press. pp. 97-98.

Mosquitoes of the Southeastern United States.  Tuscaloosa, Alabama: The University of Alabama Press. pp. 113-114.