An estimation of monthly propagation of dengue vector Aedes aegypti in rainwater filled tires

Abstract

Present study was designed to estimate the average monthly production rate of Ae. aegypti in a rainwater filled bus/truck tire (1.041?m) and car tire (0.737?m) as well as in bus/truck tire lodged with pondwater which are lacking. An average of 3957 Ae. aegypti propagated from single rainwater filled bus/truck tire which was significantly higher than the average number of them produced in a rainwater filled car tire and a pondwater lodged bus/truck tire in a rainy month. Higher water holding capacity might be the cause of difference between the bus/truck tire and the car tire. On other hand, difference in multiple physio-chemical aspects between rainwater and pondwater seemed to be the determining factor to make difference in mosquito breeding potential in a bus/truck tire. It is assumed from the present study that an open dumping ground of discarded tires may account for huge production of Ae. aegypti. Discarded tires are recommended to be kept under shade or covered with polythene-sheet or apertures be made underside each tire for draining out the accumulated rainwater.