Prey and size preference of Mesocyclops longisetus (Copepoda) for Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus larvae.

Laboratory studies investigated prey choice of the adult copepod Mesocyclops longisetus for Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus larvae. Prey size preference by this predator was tested within and between instar classes at 10 and 30 degrees C. Single copepod adults preferred to prey on 1st and 2nd instars regardless of whether either species was alone or combined. Generally, M. longisetus preyed more on Ae. albopictus than on Cx. quinquefasciatus when similar larval stages were present. Also more prey of both species were consumed at 30 degrees C compared with 10 degrees C.