Spatial and seasonal dynamics of mosquito species in Harris County, Texas, highlight risk of arbovirus introduction and transmission

Mosquito-borne diseases pose a significant public health threat, particularly in densely populated urban areas. Climate change, urbanization, and global connectivity have fueled the expansion of mosquitoes and their associated pathogens, increasing the disease burden. Harris County, Texas, is among the most vulnerable regions in the United States for mosquito-borne disease outbreaks, underscoring the critical need for localized insights into mosquito population dynamics to inform vector surveillance and control strategies. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the population dynamics of mosquito species in Harris County by exploring their species composition, spatial distribution, and seasonal patterns. Our findings reveal the extensive distribution of Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes albopictus, with Aedes aegypti concentrated in highly urbanized areas. Notably, three of the five most abundant species are primary vectors of human pathogens, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions. By leveraging high-resolution surveillance data, this research deepens our understanding of mosquito dynamics and lays the groundwork for future studies investigating the effects of climate change, urbanization, and other environmental drivers on vector populations.