A comparative study of species abundance and diversity of mosquitoes at two different sites in Lower Rio Grande Valley

With the increased spread of exotic mosquito-borne diseases worldwide, it is critical to assess the abundance, diversity and distribution of potential vector species.  In regions where diseases are likely to be introduced, such as border regions, it is especially critical to have a working knowledge of potential vectors found in the area.  Our study examines the spatial and temporal abundance and species composition of mosquito vectors in two different regions of South Texas.  One of them is a regional bird sanctuary, Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, with abundant water sources and within 5 miles of a city with a population of 37,000 people.  The second field site is located at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Moore Air Base, in a more rural, isolated portion of South Texas.   Trapping was conducted weekly during the summer of 2015 at each location, using dry-ice baited ABC light traps. Mosquitoes collected were identified to species, and relative differences in species composition and abundance were identified.  Additional results will be discussed.