Korean Mosquito Study Sparks Online Scrutiny on Lake Garda

The Korean mosquito (*Aedes koreicus*), an invasive species present in Europe for over 20 years and established around Lake Garda and in Trentino, remains poorly understood compared with the more widespread tiger mosquito. A workshop held in February 2026 by FEM, MUSE Trento, the University of Camerino and the University of Pavia—bringing together more than 40 Italian and European experts—fed into a scientific article published in *Acta Tropica*, summarising current knowledge and available references. The species has been recorded in Europe since 2008 and in Italy since 2011.

Experts say existing data are still fragmented and call for stronger surveillance and improved communication. Unlike the tiger mosquito, the Korean mosquito tolerates lower temperatures better, allowing it to colonise mountainous and foothill areas and remain active from late spring into autumn. Its eggs are almost indistinguishable from those of the tiger mosquito, making it easier to misidentify. Laboratory studies suggest it could transmit viruses and parasites including dengue, chikungunya, Zika and feline and canine filariasis, but the extent of this risk in European natural conditions is still unclear.
Italian Version