Geographical and seasonal distribution of the bluetongue virus vector, Culicoides imicola, in central Italy

摘要: Following the first incursion of bluetongue virus (BTV) into Italy, geographical and seasonal distribution biting midge Culicoides imicola Kieffer (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), main vector BTV African horse sickness virus, was investigated in two regions central Italy (Lazio Tuscany). Surveillance carried out between July 2001 December 2002 using light traps: 1917 collections were made 381 trap sites, well distributed across both regions. During survey, outbreaks recorded found 89 (23%) fairly continuously along whole western coastline, 41.2697 degrees N 44.05724 N. It only occasionally inland usually low abundance, with catches more than 1000 specimens per night sample sites 74% numbering fewer 10 specimens. Adults caught from March to mid December, peaks ranging end August November. The coastal presence few year-round records adult vectors suggests that colonization may have occurred recently, by passive wind-dispersal external source areas (Sardinia Corsica). Alternatively, species occur established, previously undetected, autochthonous populations are limited extension northern-ward within Lazio Tuscany cool winter temperatures.