Invasive Mosquito Species and Potential Introductions

Abstract Invasive species can be a threat to health and biodiversity. There are relatively few invasive mosquito species in Texas, including Aedes aegypti, Ae. albopictus, and Culex quinquefasciatus. The wide variety of habitats and climatic conditions in Texas create opportunities for invasive species, especially as climate and human change create more disturbed habitats. Potentially important species that might be poised to move north from Mexico include Anopheles vestitipennis, Ae. serratus, and, An. albimanus. Globally, An. stephensi, An. arabiensis, and Ae. notoscriptus are species that have shown a tendency to expand their ranges and that might find suitable habitats in Texas. The best defense against invasive mosquito species is systematic, coordinated surveillance that will enable early detection and response.