Keeping Tabs on the Dangerous Asian Tiger Mosquito: A Call for Simplified Pest Control
Controlling tiger mosquitoes can be achieved using oral tablets as an effective solution. - Simplifying Tablet Usability Experience
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Recent initiatives are pushing for a more straightforward distribution of Bti-tablets, an effective tool in the battle against the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). This change, proposed by Baden-Württemberg, was agreed upon at the health ministers' meeting in Weimar, Thuringia. The current process, which involves dealing only with knowledgeable individuals, can be complex and difficult. The federal government is now tasked with making this change a legal reality.
What sets the tiger mosquito apart?
This tiny pest might measure between two and ten millimeters and have an iconic black-and-white pattern, but it's significant due to its role as a carrier of pathogens such as the Chikungunya virus and dengue virus.
A local Asian tiger mosquito can only transmit tropical viruses if it bite an infected traveler and absorbs the viruses through the blood. At higher temperatures, the viruses can then multiply in the mosquito and be transmitted to others through another bite. "The fewer tiger mosquitoes there are, the lower the risk of local transmissions of tropical infectious diseases from infected travelers," said a spokeswoman for the health ministry.
The first populations of the Asian tiger mosquito were spotted in 2015 in Freiburg im Breisgau and Heidelberg. Since then, this biting mosquito has made its way to warmer regions of Baden-Württemberg, particularly along the Upper Rhine, the Rhine-Neckar region, and the middle Neckar. In recent years, populations have also been found at Lake Constance. Some municipalities, such as Kehl, have given up hope of completely eradicating the invasive tiger mosquito population.
Has Germany seen any disease outbreaks from tiger mosquitoes?
As of June 11, no locally transmitted infections such as dengue or chikungunya have been reported in Germany. However, these diseases have been reported within the EU in France, Spain, Italy, and Croatia, implying that infected individuals were bitten by mosquitoes within these countries [enrichment:6].
How do Bti-tablets work?
Bti-tablets contain protein crystals derived from the naturally occurring bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis. These protein crystals are toxic to the larvae of biting mosquitoes and sandflies at low doses. In the larvae's gut, the protein crystals break down into toxins, resulting in the destruction of the gut tissue and the larvae's eventual death. According to the health ministry, Bti-tablets are not harmful to humans, pets, birds, or other animals.
While Bti-tablets could already be purchased and distributed, for example, by town halls, the new EU guidelines, effective since the beginning of 2025, now require personal consultations with knowledgeable staff before distribution. However, only a small number of individuals possess this special expertise, making the purchase and distribution of Bti-tablets challenging. These guidelines may be changed with the initiative of Baden-Württemberg.
Where and how are Bti tablets utilized?
Bti tablets can be employed to combat the Asian tiger mosquito when other measures, such as disposal, renovation, or sealing, fail. For example, if a rain barrel cannot be properly sealed, the water can be treated with Bti tablets every 14 days according to the instructions. The same applies to cisterns, manholes, or drains where water stands for a longer period. Bti tablets are biodegradable and should be reapplied every 14 days or so.
How is the Asian tiger mosquito different from native mosquito species?
The Asian tiger mosquito is more active during the day and has a proclivity for biting compared to native biting mosquitoes. It is small, strikingly black and white patterned, and features five white stripes on its hind legs. Unlike many native biting mosquito species, the Asian tiger mosquito prefers small water accumulations as breeding sites.
The nature conservation association NABU has emphasized the importance of maintaining consultation sessions, especially to prevent misuse or incorrect use of Bti. In principle, biting mosquitoes should not be systematically eradicated. "They play an important role in the ecosystem and are of great importance for fish, amphibians, bats, or birds," said a spokesperson for NABU. The approval of Bti is based on a risk assessment, not on harmlessness. The use of tablets is tightly regulated in Europe and governed by the EU Biocidal Products Regulation. "Since 2025, the self-service ban has applied, and the sale or distribution requires expertise and professional consultation," said the NABU spokesperson.
- The Commission is proposing to extend the period of validity of the agreement to cover the period from 1 January to 31 December. This proposed change aligns with the focus on simplifying pest control.
- Science plays a crucial role in developing effective tools like Bti-tablets for combating the Asian tiger mosquito.
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