The Decrease in Biting Midges: A Seasonal Phenomenon Amplified by Drought
Reduced moisture levels impede mosquito populations, offering a brief respite, although it's tentative and may change once summer arrives.
It's a relief for now: Witnesses are reporting a decrease in the number of biting midges across the country so far this season. According to Renke Luehken, a researcher from the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine in Hamburg, the intense drought is limiting the number of breeding sites, making it tougher for these pesky critters to multiply. Many natural breeding grounds, like wetlands and rain barrels, are currently dry due to this drought.
But don't let yourguard down just yet: Luehken cautions that this decreased activity in the spring does not guarantee a less midge-infested summer. Overly dry springs and freezing winters don't impact the number of biting midges in the summer. Come July and August, you might still be dealing with a lot of itchiness.
The Persistent Threat of the Asian Tiger Mosquito
The Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes Albopictus) continues to make headlines due to its rising presence in Germany. Originally a tropical species, it has been spread further north due to warming temperatures. Luehken explains that the species has been a staple of southern Germany for nearly a decade now, with the northernmost reported population residing in Berlin. Sadly, it seems unavoidable that this species will lead to the spread of truly tropical viruses within our borders in the future.
The Growing Risk and Mandatory Reporting
In the event of fearing an Asian tiger mosquito sighting, it's essential to take action immediately. The Federal Environmental Agency has identified this insect as a carrier of West Nile Virus, dengue, and Zika viruses, posing an increased health risk. The Berlin Health Department is currently requesting samples of suspected Asian tiger mosquitoes to be reported and sent in for further examination.
Remember, this invasive species is characterized by its smaller size (slightly larger than a one-cent coin), black body, white stripes, white neck rings, and distinct white longitudinal stripe on the front of the body. If you find such a creature, freeze it overnight and send it in a small container as soon as possible.
Source: ntv.de and dpa
- Climate Change
- Viruses
- Insects
- Health Risks
- Asian Tiger Mosquito
Additional Insights:
Climate change plays a significant role in the spread of the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) across Europe, enabling its survival and proliferation in regions it previously could not inhabit. Not only has the rising temperature influenced the mosquito's ability to breed and develop successfully, but it also boosts disease transmission risks for diseases like dengue fever, chikungunya, and West Nile virus.
Vector control programs are adapting by coordinating efforts with climatic forecasts to improve the effectiveness of prevention and control measures. However, the growth of the Asian tiger mosquito's population in southern Europe and the risk of the diseases it carries appearing in Germany are concerning.
The Commission has also been consulted on the draft directive regarding the rising health risks associated with the Asian Tiger Mosquito, a staple in southern Germany for nearly a decade now. Environmental science, particularly climate-change research, suggests that warming temperatures are facilitating the spread of this invasive species across Europe. In addition, health-and-wellness concerns are amplified as the mosquito is a carrier of West Nile Virus, dengue, and Zika viruses, posing increased health risks.
