More than 600 mosquitoes of same species caught in single backyard trap as population explodes
More than 600 mosquitos of the same species were caught in a single backyard trap in New South Wales over the weekend, proving the blood-sucking insects are thriving in wet weather.
Associate Professor Cameron Webb from NSW Health Pathology caught 605 "backyard mosquitoes", otherwise known as Aedes notoscriptus, in one Sydney trap on Sunday.
The species "readily attacks humans".
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More than six hundred mosquitos were caught in a single backyard trap in Sydney. Cameron Webb
Dr Webb told 9News.com.au the amount smashes the previous record of the same species caught.
"The previous highest amount of backyard mosquitoes caught was 417," he said.
"I'm trying to claim a new world record.
"(But) while this is a huge collection of this one particular species, it is only an 'average' collection for this time of year when considering all mosquitoes.
"Our biggest trap collection was over 35,000 mosquitoes in a single trap."
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A male 'Australian backyard mosquito' (Aedes notoscriptus) getting ready to take flight. Cameron Webb
Last year Dr Webb predicted mosquito populations would explode due humid and wet weather conditions brought on by La Niña.
"This is absolutely what we'd expect to see given the conditions," he confirmed today.
"They're thriving because mosquitos prefer warmth, and they love water."
There are about 300 mosquito species in Australia and they're found in "most parts of Australia".
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Mosquito populations have exploded due to the humid and wet weather conditions brought on by La Niña. Cameron Webb
Two mosquito-borne illnesses are found in Australia; Ross River virus and Dengue, which is found in the Top End.
While the risk is small, every state and territory in the country is potentially at risk of Ross River virus, Dr Webb added.
The best way to protect your flesh from mosquitoes is to wear a good insect repellent, which contains DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil, Dr Webb said.
This should be re-applied after swimming or exercise.
Long sleeves, pants, shoes and socks should be worn wherever possible and outdoor plants and containers should be checked once a week to see if they've filled with water.
"Tip water-filled containers out, you don't want to provide a breeding ground for the insects," Dr Webb said.
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