Laboratory studies of Ochlerotatus samoanus in association with leaf axils of Freycinetia (Pandanaceae) in Samoa.

Three species of Freycinetia (Pandanaceae) (F. reineckei, F. storkii, and F. hombronii) were tested for oviposition preference of Ochlerotatus samoanus, a vector of filariasis in Samoa. Laboratory tests indicated that F. reineckei was preferred by this mosquito for oviposition. Eggs were preferentially deposited on a peeled or a moist dried leaf. The percentage hatch was highest when eggs were kept moist for longer than 4 days before submersion. Hatching was complete in less than 6 h. These studies allowed us to successfully rear Oc. samoanus in the laboratory, facilitating future studies on the biology and control of this important vector.