If western equine encephalitis were found in Louisiana, what species would likely be the vector to the bird reservoir host?

The southern house mosquito, known scientifically as Culex quinquefasciatus, is a primary vector for western equine encephalitis (WEE) and is well-established in Louisiana. This species is capable of transmitting the virus from infected birds, which are the reservoir hosts, to humans and other animals. The southern house mosquito prefers to breed in urban and suburban areas, often in standing water found around human habitation, making it a key player in the transmission of various mosquito-borne diseases in this region.

The other species mentioned have different ecological roles and preferred habitats. The Asian tiger mosquito, while a competent vector for several viruses, is more associated with urban infestations and tends to target humans more directly rather than primarily serving as a bridge vector between birds and other species. The common pool mosquito and the yellow fever mosquito also have significant roles in disease ecology but do not have the same established link with western equine encephalitis in Louisiana as the southern house mosquito does. Therefore, the southern house mosquito stands out as the most likely vector for this specific disease in the given geographic location.