Comparison of Climatic Suitability for Aedes albopictus Across Three Regions in Northwestern Libya

Date

2026-8

Type

Article

Journal title

Al-Mukhtar Journal of Basic Sciences

Issue

Vol. 24 No. 2

Author(s)

HAIFA MOHAMMED GIUMA BEN MILOUD
Nawal Abdusalam mahmoud mahfud

Pages

80 - 92

Abstract

Every living organism is adapted to climatic conditions that support re production and survival in its environment. In this study, climate plays a crucial role in determining the climatic suitability of Aedes albopictus across three northwestern regions along the Libyan coast opposite southern Europe. This invasive mosquito species appears to have mi grated across the Mediterranean Sea, reached the Libyan coast, and en countered suitable environmental conditions. Some of these areas con tain shallow salt marshes and have favorable climatic conditions, as evi denced by the strong correlation between climatic factors and mosquito populations at a statistical significance level of p = 0.01. Although mos quito populations are low, Souq al-Juma has the highest number, fol lowed by central Tripoli, while Tajoura has the lowest during the first period (1986–2025). In contrast, the Tajoura region appears more ho mogeneous and consistent in its population values, with a narrower dis tribution, indicating relative stability. This relative stability, together with favorable environmental conditions, may make the region more susceptible to future invasion by Aedes albopictus mosquito species.