Mosquito larvae grow faster if they’re exposed to particular bacteria, according to a new study that could help global health programs.
Mosquito larvae grow faster if they’re exposed to particular bacteria, according to a new study that could help global health programs.
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes spread illnesses including dengue, yellow fever and Zika. Anti-disease programs breed and release non-biting male mosquitoes that are either sterile or prevent transmission of diseases.
These mass release programs can be substantially more effective than the widespread spraying of insecticides, as these insects have developed resistance to many commonly employed chemicals.
The new study, by the universities of Exeter and Wageningen, examined how Asaia bacteria affects the development of mosquito larvae.
