Ochlerotatus pullatus
(Coquillett, 1904)
Ochlerotatus pullatus is a boreoalpine mosquito with a discontinuous Holarctic distribution. In eastern North America, it has been recorded from alpine and subalpine , with a notable range extension documented in the Chic-Chocs mountains of eastern Québec. The species develops in temporary snowmelt pools at elevations around 1000 m, where it can be locally . Its presence in disjunct mountain has been discussed in relation to postglacial patterns.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ochlerotatus pullatus: /ˌɒklɪroʊˈteɪtəs ˈpʊlətəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
A member of the Ochlerotatus Group within Aedes; specific diagnostic features not detailed in available sources. As a boreoalpine , likely associated with high-elevation where it may co-occur with Aedes hexodontus, from which it can be distinguished by relative abundance patterns (O. pullatus typically , A. hexodontus sporadic).
Habitat
Snowmelt pools and temporary water bodies in alpine and subalpine zones; specifically recorded from unshaded rock pools, ponds with rocky bottoms, and riparian ponds at approximately 1000 m elevation in subalpine fir forest. characteristics show similarity across Holarctic localities including Eurasia and the Cordillera.
Distribution
Discontinuous Holarctic distribution spanning Europe, northern Asia, and North America. In eastern North America, recorded from alpine regions with southernmost known localities in the Chic-Chocs mountains (Parc de la Gaspésie, Québec), representing a significant northward and eastward range extension. GBIF records indicate presence also in southern Asia.
Seasonality
Larval development occurs in spring and summer in temporary snowmelt pools; timing tied to snowmelt hydrology in alpine environments.
Life Cycle
Aquatic larval stage develops in temporary snowmelt pools. Specific details of , pupal, and stages not documented in available sources.
Similar Taxa
- Aedes hexodontusCo-occurs in same alpine ; O. pullatus typically while A. hexodontus present only sporadically
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- NCBI Taxonomy
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