Studies on Ecology of Culex martinii Medschid (Diptera : Culicidae) in Muğla, Ortaca-Sarıgerme Region

Authors: S. BÜLENT ALTEN, FATİH M. ŞİMŞEK

Abstract: In this study, site selection for oviposition purposes, effects of' different climatic factors on egg raft production, fecundity, seasonal occurrence and abundance of Culex martinii in Sarıgerme region, Muğla were studies over a period of two seasons (from August 1991 to June 1993). Each season represented a period between the date on which the first egg rafts were produced, till the date in early winter of the consecutive year on which the last egg rafts were laid. Mean monthly counts of egg rafts and number of egg per raft were made, and mean monthly climatic variables such as saturation defıcit, and water and air temperatures were recorded. It was confirmed that C. martinii prefers shady areas for oviposition. It was established that maximum fecundity occured in September and especially October of each season, therefore, the maksimum population density was reached in autumn. The mean monthly egg raft production correlated best with mean monthly water and air temperatures with no time lag. High correlation coefficient was shown between egg rafts production and degree-months. It was concluded that, C. martinii is an excellent r-strategist, probably to ensure survival during adverse environmental conditions in winter.

Keywords: Muğla-Ortaca, Sarıgerme region, Culex martinii, eccology, habiat selection, egg raft production, fecundity, climatic factors, Türkiye

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