Aedeomyia


Aedeomyia is a genus of mosquitoes in the family Culicidae, comprising seven recognized species. These mosquitoes are distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. Certain species, notably A. squamipennis, are vectors of arboviruses such as the Gamboa virus and potentially the Venezuelan [Equine Encephalitis virus], underscoring their medical significance.

Description

Aedeomyia mosquitoes are distinguished by their broad scales and unique antennal structures. Females possess stout antennal flagellomeres, while males exhibit thickened apical flagellomeres. The larvae are identifiable by their swollen, strongly curved antennae, which exceed the length of the head capsule—a key diagnostic trait.

Distribution

Species of Aedeomyia inhabit tropical and subtropical zones across multiple biogeographical regions:
- Afrotropical: Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Australasian: Australia and nearby islands.
- Nearctic: North America.
- Neotropical: Central America and South America, including the Caribbean.
- Oriental: Southeast Asia and parts of Asia.
Notably, A. squamipennis, originally endemic to Central and South America, has expanded its range into Florida, USA, as documented in recent studies.

Species

The genus Aedeomyia includes the following seven species:
Aedeomyia mosquitoes are primarily nocturnal, becoming active after sunset. They predominantly feed on birds in forest canopies, though species like A. africana and A. furfurea have been recorded biting humans, particularly in forested areas. The larvae develop in shaded, freshwater habitats with abundant floating vegetation—such as ponds containing Pistia or Salvinia, or tree holes—often alongside other mosquito genera like Aedes, Culex, and Uranotaenia.

Medical Importance

Several Aedeomyia species are vectors of medically significant arboviruses:
These associations emphasize the genus's role in public health and veterinary medicine.