Introduction : This study investigates the oviposition behavior of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes concerning different colored ovitraps across pre- and post-monsoon seasons in Hosur Municipal Corporation, Tamil Nadu.
Methods : A cross-sectional design was employed, involving the placement of seven colored ovitraps (black, red, orange, blue, yellow, violet, and green) in 50 houses per selected ward, with observations collected weekly during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon during 2023. Eggs were counted, and species were identified in a controlled laboratory setting.
RESULTS : The results demonstrate a significant preference for black ovitraps, which exhibited the highest positivity and egg count in both seasons, followed by red and orange traps. Notably, indoor settings accounted for the majority of oviposition events across seasons (64.75%-65.86%), emphasizing the importance of indoor breeding sites. Seasonal variations had minimal impact on oviposition patterns, suggesting that urban microclimatic conditions in Hosur might buffer environmental fluctuations.
CONCLUSION : These findings underscore the efficacy of black-colored ovitraps as a reliable vector surveillance tool. The study highlights the need for targeted indoor vector control measures, such as source reduction and habitat modification, to effectively combat dengue in urban settings. Further research into additional environmental and behavioral factors influencing Aedes oviposition is recommended to enhance control strategies. By optimizing ovitrap design and placement, public health programs can strengthen mosquito surveillance and mitigate the burden of vector-borne diseases like dengue.