California has found the tropical Asian tiger mosquito in the San Gabriel Valley, where it is not normally found. The species spreads various tropical diseases, and may be a symptom of climate change.
"It started when an El Monte woman called to report an unusual pest: tiny mosquitoes that she said were biting her in the middle of the day.
The complaint last week raised red flags for technicians at the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District, who know that common mosquitoes typically attack during morning and evening hours. ...
It was an Asian tiger mosquito, an aggressive, nonnative species that has caused outbreaks of tropical viruses in other states. Authorities worry the insects, about half the size of normal mosquitoes and named for their distinctive black-and-white striped markings, could spread disease if they gained a foothold in Southern California.
So they are hoping to wipe out the blood suckers."
Tony Barboza reports for the Los Angeles Times September 15, 2011.
