Spatiotemporal dynamics of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in urban green areas in the city of São Paulo, SP, Brazil.

Abstract

We investigated the abundance and distribution of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes in urban parks in the eastern zone of the city of São Paulo, where the highest number of autochthonous dengue cases during the major 2015-2016 epidemic was reported. The association of climatic and environmental factors with the spatiotemporal distribution of species in relation to vegetation cover and human proximity was examined. Twelve geo-referenced ovitraps were randomly installed in each park, covering areas with varying degrees of vegetation and human activity from September, 2018 to February, 2020, during three weeks each season. A total of 57,604 Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus eggs were collected, identifying 10,228 Ae. aegypti and 23,764 Ae. albopictus larvae. Seasonal variations showed distinct patterns with higher mosquito abundances during warmer and rainier seasons. The association between abundance and climatic factors was more evident at the level of the aedini assemblies than at the level of the local populations. Aedes aegypti was predominantly found in peripheral and transitional areas with higher human activity during rainy and warmer seasons. In contrast, Ae. albopictus thrived in inner park areas with greater vegetation cover and lower human activity during drier and milder seasons. The abundance of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus was influenced by climatic factors and park-specific microhabitats. These findings underscore the importance of targeted vector control strategies in urban park settings during seasons favorable for mosquito reproduction. Understanding the interaction between ecological factors and these mosquitoes in urban environments is critical for effective public health interventions.