Aedes bimaculatus

Aedes bimaculatus is a species of mosquito in the genus Aedes, belonging to the family Culicidae. It was first described in 1902 by American entomologist Daniel William Coquillett. This mosquito is known for its distinctive bright orange coloration and has been recorded in specific regions of North America, particularly in parts of Texas and northeastern Mexico.

Aedes bimaculatus was originally described by Daniel William Coquillett in 1902.^[1] Taxonomic revisions have led some researchers to propose its reclassification into the genus Ochlerotatus, based on morphological characteristics.^[2] However, many sources continue to recognize it as an Aedes species.^[3] Its historical synonyms include Ochlerotatus bimaculatus and Culex bimaculatus.

Aedes bimaculatus is a medium- to large-sized mosquito with a distinctive bright orange appearance. Key identifying features include:

• Hind tarsomeres that are entirely dark scaled.
• A yellow scutum marked by a pair of dark brown to black postlateral spots.
• An absence of a dark spot in the hypostigmal area.

It undergoes complete metamorphosis through egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.

Aedes bimaculatus is a species found in parts of North America. In the United States, it has been recorded in several counties of Texas – including San Benito, Brownsville, and additional counties in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.^[4] In Mexico, occurrences have been documented in regions such as Nuevo León.

Aedes bimaculatus is typically found in habitats such as:

• Muddy, temporary ground pools and wells.
• Roadside ditches, particularly in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.
• Woodland pools.

Larvae are nearly transparent, with the dark sixth and seventh abdominal segments being distinct, and adults are frequently observed resting on grass near these aquatic habitats.^[5]

While specific studies on behavior are limited, Aedes bimaculatus is presumed to share the typical life cycle and activity patterns of other Aedes mosquitoes. Females lay eggs in aquatic habitats, where larvae and pupae develop before emerging as adults. Activity likely peaks during dawn and dusk, although detailed behavioral patterns have not been extensively documented.

There is limited evidence of any significant role in pathogen transmission by Aedes bimaculatus. Unlike more notorious Aedes species such as Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus, it is not recognized as a major vector for diseases such as dengue fever, Zika virus, or chikungunya. Further research is necessary to clarify any potential medical importance.