Autor(es): Grant, A. J.; O'Connell, R. J.

Resumo: Mosquitoes rely on carbon dioxide (CO sub(2)) as a primary component in host-seeking behavior. CO sub(2) is detected by specialized receptor neurons in basiconic sensilla located on the maxillary palps of the mosquito. The sensitivity and specificity of these sensors can be studied using single-cell electrophysiological methods. Such electrophysiological data reveal that certain aspects of the sensitivity of these sensors change during the maturation of adult female Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae). Although the mean threshold of response is similar between the ages examined, the overall sensitivity and temporal pattern of discharge of the neurons vary with age. Older females, which are likely to engage in host-seeking behavior, are more responsive to CO sub(2) than very young females that are unlikely to seek hosts. Male mosquitoes did not show a similar pronounced pattern of sensitivity. The implications of such differences are discussed with respect to behavior.

Palavras-Chave: Chemical stimuli; Feeding behavior; Sexual maturity; Neurons; Receptors; Electrophysiology; Carbon dioxide; Aquatic insects; Host searching behavior; Sensilla; Maxillary palps

Imprenta: Journal of Medical Entomology, v. 44, n. 4, p. 617-623, 2007.

Descritores: Aedes aegypti - Cell ; Aedes aegypti - Sexual

Data de publicação: 2007

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