Biological, ecological and trophic features of invasive mosquitoes and other hematophagous arthropods: What makes them successful?

Invasive hematophagous arthropods threaten planetary health by vectoring a growing diversity of pathogens and parasites which cause diseases. Efforts to limit human and animal morbidity and mortality caused by these disease vectors are dependent on understandings of their biology and ecology-from cellular to ecosystem levels. Here, we review research into the biology and ecology of invasive hematophagous arthropods globally, with a particular emphasis on mosquitoes, culminating towards management recommendations. Evolutionary history, genetics, and environmental filtering contribute to invasion success of these taxa, with life history trait and ecological niche shifts between native and invaded regions regularly documented. Pertinent vector species spread readily through active and passive means, via anthropogenic and natural mechanisms as climate changes. The rate and means of spread differ among taxa according to their capacity for entrainment in human vectors and physiology. It is critical to understand the role of these invaders in novel ecosystems, as biotic interactions, principally with their resources, competitors, and natural enemies, mediate patterns of invasion success. We further highlight recent advances in understanding interactions among arthropod-associated microbiota, and identify future research directions integrating arthropod microbiota to explain invasion success under changing environments. These biological and ecological facets provide an integrative perspective on the invasion history and dynamics of invasive hematophagous arthropods, helping inform on their management strategies. Genetic and microbiome features of invasive mosquitoes are reviewed.Movement patterns and geographic spread of mosquitoes are explored.A food-web approach to assess the impacts of invasive mosquitoes is presented.Novel perspectives for the management of invasive mosquitoes are considered.

Automated summary

Invasive hematophagous arthropods, such as mosquitoes, pose a threat to the health of the planet by carrying and spreading various pathogens and parasites that cause diseases. Understanding the biology and ecology of these invasive species is crucial for efforts to reduce human and animal morbidity and mortality. This review article summarizes the research on invasive hematophagous arthropods globally, emphasizing mosquitoes, and provides management recommendations.