Population interaction of Toxorhynchites splendens and Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) in the laboratory.

ABSTRACT

Population interaction of Toxorhynchites splendens and Aedes aegypti in relation to the complexity of the breeding habitats and their initial number was studied in the laboratory. The predator and the prey were introduced in different ratios in the colony cages (1 m3) with different oviposition structures. Predator-prey interaction lasted for 5-9 weeks without structural complexity of the oviposition containers. When there was a structural complexity, their interaction lasted for 18 weeks. During the interaction period, Ae. aegypti number was at a lower level. Therefore, both structural complexities of the breeding sites and initial predator and prey number play a crucial role in establishing stable interaction between them at a lower threshold level for a longer period.