23. Surveillance of Mosquito Populations and the Occurrence of Nematodes and Wolbachia Infections on the UNG-Gainesville Campus

Abstract

Mosquitoes are known to vector a wide variety of parasites and pathogens, including Dirofilaria immitis (dog heartworm) and other nematode worms. Both mosquitoes and nematodes are known to be hosts of intracellular bacteria, such as Wolbachia, with different effects on the hosts. Wolbachia infection can be detrimental to mosquitoes, for instance causing reduced vectorial capacity and sterility, while infection enhances virulence, survival, and reproduction, of parasitic nematodes. An understanding of the dynamics among these three organisms can give insights into ways these relationships can be exploited to control disease transmission. We propose weekly surveys of mosquito populations on the UNG, Gainesville campus by setting up two Sentinel 2 traps. The two traps will be placed on prominent locations, with signs posted alongside in order to provide impactful information to the UNG community. After trapping, we will identify all mosquitoes to species and sex, then dissect females for the presence of nematode worms. Using Flinders Technology Associates (FTA) cards, which can be used to extract, isolate, and store DNA, we propose to screen for the presence of Wolbachia DNA in both mosquitoes and nematodes. We will use quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to measure the degree of Wolbachia infection. This project aims to both determine and inform the community of the potential of local mosquitoes to transmit infectious diseases to both humans and pets. Future directions include applications of these findings in an attempt to control mosquitoes and the diseases they transmit.