This study was conducted to better understand the effect of different
sucrose concentrations on Aedes albopictus fecundity, biting behavior and survival.
Laboratory strain Ae. albopictus females were raised at four different sucrose
concentrations (10%, 30%, 50%, and 70%) and their fecundity, host biting on and
survival rates were determined. Mosquitoes fed on high (50% or 70%) showed
higher mean fecundity rate compared to those on low (10% or 30%) sucrose concentration,
and had higher daily biting rate. On the other hand, mosquitoes fed
on the low (10% or 30%) sucrose concentrations recorded higher survival rate.
These results suggest female mosquitoes deficient in nutrient intake during sugar
feeding may regain nutrients needed during blood feeding, whereas those fed
on high sucrose concentration have high fecundity due to high biting rate but
have low survivability due to low sucrose intake during sugar feeding. Thus, Ae.
albopictus females have a capability to regulate their metabolic needs based on
sugar nutrient availability.