A New Phytotelm plant for Ecuador, Ananas comosus L. Merr. (Bromeliaceae) a its Wyeomyia species inhabitant (Diptera, Culicidae)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. Phytotelmata are a botanical group with water-impounding structures formed by non-aquatic plants, such as leaf axils, perforated internodes, stem holes or depressions, rot-holes in tree trunks or branches (tree-holes), flowers, open fruits, among others. These plants offer suitable conditions for aquatic or semi-aquatic animals, in particular arthropods. Immature mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) are well represented among the inhabitants of phytotelmata. OBJECTIVE. Carry out a rapid assessment of the biodiversity of mosquitoes present in different land uses in the population and biological reserve of Limoncocha, to assess the vulnerability and risk of transmission of pathogens that cause emerging diseases. METHODS. Immature mosquitoes were collected in different phytotelmata including Ananas comosus leaf axils in a deforested area with small crops nearby of the Limoncocha Biological Reserve. RESULTS. Fourth instar larvae of Wyeomyia (Wyeomyia) medioalbipes Lutz were found in this plant to confirm their presence in the country and to the cultivated pineapples as phytotelmata in Ecuador. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS. This is the first report for Ecuador of Ananas comosus as phytotelmata and the associated mosquito species. Additionally, the presence of Wy. medioalpes in the country is confirmed. This information is added in the epidemiological evaluation of vulnerability and risk for the transmission of pathogens with a biogeographical and ecological vision.