Zittra's upcoming research project focuses on addressing the significant knowledge gap on the distribution and habitat preferences of urban mosquitoes, particularly in the city of Vienna. With the growing threat of mosquito-borne diseases in Europe, understanding how these insects interact with different urban landscapes is crucial. The project aims to study mosquito populations in three distinct climate zones within Vienna, where more than 25 mosquito species have been identified so far, including some known to transmit pathogens. By mapping mosquito habitats and determining which species thrive in specific environments, Zittra's research will provide crucial insights into urban mosquito ecology.
In addition to assessing mosquito distribution, Zittra's team will develop and test new molecular tools to detect and identify mosquitoes in urban settings. The results of this project are expected to serve as a basis for improving mosquito surveillance in Vienna's urban and periurban areas. Ultimately, this research will provide valuable knowledge for the management of both mosquito populations and the pathogens they may carry.
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