Effects of high temperature on the emergence and survival of adult Culex pipiens molestus and Culex quinquefasciatus in Japan.

The emergence rate and adult survival (longevity) of Japanese strains of Culex pipiens molestus and Culex quinquefasciatus were compared at temperatures of 21, 25, and 30 degrees C. The pupation and emergence rates in both strains were higher at 21 and 25 degrees C than at 30 degrees C. The adult emergence rate, especially in females, was lower in Cx. p. molestus than in Cx. quinquefasciatus. Longevity of females and males was lower in Cx. p. molestus at 25 degrees C and above. The survival of Cx. p. molestus was adversely affected by temperatures of 28 degrees C and higher. High temperature may restrict the distribution of this species. Therefore, if Cx. p. molestus infests the Okinawa region, the likelihood that it will become established is minimal.