Light traps are useful for assessing adult population densities of which species?

Light traps are particularly effective for assessing adult population densities of Aedes sollicitans. This species, commonly known as the Eastern Saltmarsh Mosquito, is generally active during the warmer months and is attracted to light sources, making light traps a suitable method for capturing and estimating their population levels.

The behavior of Aedes sollicitans, including their attraction to artificial light, is a determining factor in the efficacy of light traps. In contrast, while other Aedes species like Aedes aegypti and Aedes triseriatus may be captured in light traps, their attraction to light is not as strong or reliable as that of Aedes sollicitans. Anopheles quadrimaculatus, known for transmitting malaria, tends to be less attracted to light traps and is more often studied using different collection methods, such as landing catches or CDC light traps that are specifically designed to attract them.

Thus, the efficacy of light traps in monitoring adult populations is most pronounced for Aedes sollicitans, allowing pest control professionals to gauge the density of this species and implement control measures effectively.