Categorization of Domestic Breeding Habitats of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) in Northern Queensland, Australia1

Abstract

In a survey of artificial water-bearing containers in northern Queensland, Australia, the eight wet-container categories generally did not differ significantly in proportions containing Aedes aegypti (L.) larvae. Water storage containers were a significant source of breeding on a tropical island (Thursday Island) and moderate at an inland rural town (Charters Towers); at two eastern seaboard cities (Townsville and Cairns), garden accouterments such as saucers for pot plants and plant-striking containers provided the majority of habitats. Rubbish (including automobile tires) and discarded household items were of less importance at all localities. A positive response to environmental sanitation and public education campaigns was indicated at Thursday Island and Townsville but not at Cairns.