Some Observations on the Bionomics of the Common Mosquitoes of the Nile Delta

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Abstract
Summary Culex antennatus, C. univittatus, C. pipiens, Aedes caspius, and Anopheles pharoensis were found to be the most common mosquitoes of the cultivated areas of the Nile Delta. This finding is based on collections of adults from light traps, baited traps, and diurnal resting places, and from larval collections. C. antennatus, C. univittatus, A. pharoensis, and A. caspius are warm weather mosquitoes with greatest abundance in July, August, September and October. C. antennatus occurs in by far the greatest numbers. C. pipiens is most abundant in April and May with reduced numbers during July, August, and September and a rise in October and November. It is present and actively breeding in appreciable numbers during the winter months. C. univittatus is a common mosquito in the southern part of the Nile Delta but tends to become relatively less abundant as the northern limit of the cultivated area is approached. Each of the five common species feeds readily on man. C. pipiens and A. pharoensis appear to be most strongly anthropophilic. Of the three species of Culex, C. univittatus is probably the most diverse in its feeding habits, and is most strongly attracted to birds. C. antennatus seems to feed most commonly on man and the large domestic mammals. C. univittatus was colonized without difficulty and the colony was maintained for over two years. C. antennatus failed to mate in captivity, and consequently was not colonized.
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