New invasive mosquito species found in Florida

Scientists are concerned about an invasive species of mosquito that’s taken up residence in Florida.

The insect’s scientific name is Culex lactator.

It’s typically found in Central and South America but has turned up in three Florida counties in recent years.

“Introductions of new mosquito species like this are concerning because many of our greatest mosquito-related challenges are the result of nonnative mosquitoes,” said Lawrence Reeves, lead author of a new study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology by faculty at the UF/IFAS Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory in Vero Beach. “In a case like this, it’s difficult to anticipate what to expect when we know so little about a mosquito species.”

Culex mosquitoes have been known to carry diseases like West Nile and encephalitis.

Scientists are currently working to determine if the Culex lactator can carry these or other viruses.

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