Which mosquito species is commonly referred to as the Asian tiger mosquito?

The Asian tiger mosquito is commonly known as Aedes albopictus. This species is characterized by its distinctive appearance, featuring black and white markings on its body and legs, which is where it gets its common name. Aedes albopictus is notable for its adaptability to various environments, including urban and suburban areas, and is a significant vector for the transmission of various viruses, including those that cause dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya.

In understanding the distinctions between mosquito species, Aedes aegypti, while also a vector for several diseases, is known as the yellow fever mosquito and has a different distribution and set of behavioral traits compared to Aedes albopictus. Anopheles quadrimaculatus is primarily known for its role in malaria transmission, and Culex pipiens is typically associated with West Nile virus and other encephalitis viruses. Each of these species has its unique identifiers and ecological roles, which are essential for pest control and public health strategies.