The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, is distinctive for its striking appearance, characterized by a black body with prominent white stripes. A single white stripe runs down its head and back, complemented by white bands on its legs. This mosquito is active during the day, making it a common presence in many communities.
Native Home of the Asian Tiger Mosquito
The Asian tiger mosquito originated in the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, including countries like India and Japan, and several Pacific islands. In its native environment, Aedes albopictus primarily inhabited densely vegetated rural areas, historically breeding in natural water-holding sites like tree holes and bamboo stumps.
The Journey of Global Expansion
The global spread of the Asian tiger mosquito accelerated through human activities, particularly international trade and travel. A primary mechanism for dispersal has been the global shipment of used tires, which collect rainwater and provide ideal breeding sites for the mosquito’s desiccation-resistant eggs during transit. Another pathway involved the trade of ornamental plants like “lucky bamboo,” which can also harbor eggs. The species was first detected outside its native range in Albania in 1979, then in Italy in 1990. In the Western Hemisphere, it was first collected in the United States in 1983 in Memphis, Tennessee, and later noted in Brazil (1986) and Mexico (1988). These introductions often occurred near ports or industrial areas, leading to subsequent dispersal along transportation routes.
Key Factors Driving Its Spread
The Asian tiger mosquito’s global expansion is largely due to several biological characteristics. This species demonstrates notable adaptability to a variety of climates, allowing it to establish populations even in temperate zones where it can survive colder periods. A key adaptation is its ability to lay desiccation-resistant eggs, which can endure dry conditions for several months. These resilient eggs hatch only when submerged in water, enabling them to survive long-distance transport in dry containers and then hatch upon encountering moisture in a new location.
Aedes albopictus also utilizes small, artificial water containers for breeding, aiding its spread in human-modified environments. Common breeding sites include discarded tires, flower pots, bird baths, buckets, and clogged rain gutters in urban and suburban areas. Unlike many other mosquito species, the Asian tiger mosquito is an aggressive daytime biter, feeding on a wide range of hosts, including humans, domestic animals, and birds. This flexible feeding and preference for human-associated habitats contribute to its rapid spread in populated areas.
Current Global Distribution
The Asian tiger mosquito has established populations across a wide geographic area, present on nearly every continent except Antarctica. In Europe, it is established in many countries, including Italy, Spain, France, and Albania, with its range expanding northward; as of 2025, it has been detected in 16 European countries and 369 regions. Across the Americas, Aedes albopictus is widely distributed throughout much of the United States, particularly in the south-central and eastern regions, spreading to over 1,350 counties across 40 states and the District of Columbia. Its presence is also noted in parts of Latin America, including Brazil and Mexico, and extends into the Caribbean. The species has also been reported in various parts of Africa, the Middle East, and the Pacific islands, reflecting its extensive global reach from Southeast Asia.