Container type influences the relative abundance, body size, and vector competence of Ochlerotatus triseriatus for La Crosse virus

The influence of container type on vector abundance, body size, and vector competence for La Crosse virus (LACV) was examined at South Farms and Trelease Woods study sites in Urbana, IL. Ochlerotatus triseriatus was dominant in tree holes while Oc. japonicus and Culex restuans were mostly dominant in artificial containers. Adult females of Oc. triseriatus and Oc. japonicus from plastic bins were significantly larger than those from tree holes or waste tires. Oc. japonicus females from South Farms were also significantly larger than those from Trelease Woods. Oc. triseriatus females from plastic bins and waste tires were more competent for LACV than females from tree holes. Further, infected Oc. triseriatus females from plastic bins had significantly higher virus titers than those from tree holes. Overall, wing length was not correlated to vector competence. These findings suggest that container type likely contributes to the spatial and temporal dynamics of LACV transmission.