Characterization of the microbiome of Aedes albopictus populations in different habitats from Spain and Sao Tome: implications for vector control.

Abstract

The mosquito microbiome significantly influences vector competence, including in Aedes albopictus, a globally invasive ectoparasite. Describing the microbiome and Wolbachia strains of Ae. albopictus from different regions can guide area-specific control strategies. Mosquito samples from Spain and Sao Tome were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metagenomic sequencing. Wolbachia infection was genotyped, and statistical analysis compared infection patterns by sex and population. Results revealed a dominance of dual Wolbachia infections in the microbiome of both populations of Ae. albopictus, especially among females. The two populations presented a shared microbiome, although 5 and 9 other genera were only present in Spain and Sao Tome populations, respectively. Genera like Pelomonas and Nevskia were identified for the first time in Aedes mosquitoes. This study is the first to describe the Ae. albopictus bacteriome in Spain and Sao Tome, offering insights for the development of targeted mosquito control strategies.