Semi-field and surveillance data define the natural diapause timeline for Culex pipiens across the United States

Abstract

Culex pipiens is a globally-distributed mosquito of medical and veterinary importance, serving as a primary vector of West Nile virus (WNV). To survive winter, female Cx. pipiens mosquitoes undergo adult reproductive diapause initiated by photoperiod and temperature cues. While well-studied under laboratory conditions, the environmental signals that promote Cx. pipiens diapause induction in natural settings are less understood. Here, we evaluate Cx. pipiens in laboratory and semi-field studies to examine diapause induction, defining an approximate timeline beginning in late-August where mosquitoes become receptive to diapause. Using gravid (reproductive) mosquito surveillance data as a proxy for adult diapause incidence for locations across the United States (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Virginia), we demonstrate consistent population declines coinciding with periods of diapause receptivity except in hybridization zones where Cx. quinquefasciatus is present, suggesting that Culex population genetics can significantly impact end-season population trends. Together, this study defines a window for diapause induction across the United States, shaped by temperature, latitude, elevation, and mosquito population genetics. Coinciding with the cessation of WNV activity, these data can have important implications for mosquito control, where targeted efforts prior to diapause induction can decrease mosquito populations and WNV overwintering to reduce mosquito-borne disease incidence the following season.