First Morphological and Ecological Report of Aedes albopictus, the Dengue Fever Vector, in Ardabil Province, Northwestern Iran

Background: Aedes albopictus, known as the Asian tiger mosquito, is among the most important vectors of viral diseases such as dengue fever, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever worldwide.The mosquito spreads quickly to new places due to its high level of adaptability in any setting and could be extremely dangerous to public health.Methods: In this study, 294 places in Ardabil Province were sampled for adult mosquitoes and third-and fourth-instar larvae of the family Culicidae between May 5 and November 8, 2024.Urban, rural, and suburban areas were sampled and known from which both larvae and adult mosquitoes were sampled.The collected mosquito species were identified using valid identification keys.Results: A total of 7,675 specimens of mosquitoes were collected, of which 97.31% were larvae and 2.68% adults.Four genera were found: Aedes (1.08%), Anopheles (0.75%), Culex (68.46%), and Culiseta (29.7%).Ae. albopictus was found for the first time in Ardabil Province as eggs, larvae, and adults inside used tires stored at a heavy vehicle repair yard in Bileh-Savar County, and confirmation by the Ministry of Health confirmed it.The majority of Ae. albopictus collections came from rural and artificial environments. Conclusion:The present study confirms the presence of Ae. albopictus, the primary dengue vector, in northwestern Iran (Bileh-Savar, Ardabil) for the first time.Detection of the species in man-made habitats like used tires highlights the importance of appropriate management of such resources and strengthened vector surveillance and control operations.