The Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) is one of the two dominant container-breeding day-biting mosquitoes in Polk County alongside Aedes aegypti. The species is distinguished by its bold white-and-black banded legs and a single white stripe down the dorsal thorax. Aedes albopictus is a competent vector for dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and other arboviruses, and is the species driving most daytime mosquito complaints in residential Polk County yards.
Asian tiger mosquito biology
- ~5 mm long, black body, single white stripe down dorsal thorax, banded legs.
- Female bites primarily during daytime (morning and late afternoon peaks).
- Lays eggs on inside walls of water-holding containers.
- Eggs are drought-tolerant — hatch on water contact, can survive months dry.
- Larvae develop in standing water within 5–10 days.
- Weak flier — rarely beyond 200 yards from breeding source.
Sources of Aedes albopictus in Polk County yards
- Bromeliads (massive source in central Florida landscaping; treat with Bti every 30 days).
- Plant saucers, pot drainage.
- Tire piles, kiddie pools, dog water bowls.
- Clogged gutters.
- Bird baths.
- Tarp-covered outdoor items.
- Discarded containers, bottle caps, soda cans.
- Ornamental fountain with stagnant water.
Treatment
Effective Polk County control of Aedes albopictus requires larval source reduction (eliminate all standing water on the property and within 200 yards if possible) + residual barrier on shaded harborage vegetation + In2Care stations that exploit egg-laying behavior to spread pyriproxyfen and Beauveria bassiana. For the broader mosquito program see the mosquito control complete guide.
Related Lakeland Exterminators pages
- Mosquito Control Complete Guide — pillar
- Mosquito Control in Lakeland — service page
- When to Spray for Mosquitoes — timing
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell Aedes albopictus from Aedes aegypti?
Aedes albopictus has a single white stripe down the dorsal thorax. Aedes aegypti has a lyre-shaped white pattern on the dorsal thorax. Both species are present in Polk County.
Can Asian tiger mosquitoes transmit Zika?
Yes, Aedes albopictus is a competent Zika vector. Aedes aegypti is the primary vector in Florida.
How do I eliminate Asian tiger mosquitoes in my yard?
Larval source reduction is the most effective single intervention. Walk the property weekly and empty every standing-water container.
Do bromeliads really need to be treated?
Yes. Bromeliad water-holding leaf axils are a major Aedes albopictus breeding source. Treat with Bti granules every 30 days during mosquito season.
How do I find a Polk County mosquito operator?
Call the number on this page. Operators routed through this line are FDACS Category 8B or 8C licensed.
Call (XXX) XXX-XXXX — routed to FDACS-licensed pest control operators serving Polk County, FL.