Which statement best describes Ochlerotatus japonicus?

• A. Overwinters as adults.
• B. Container breeder; yellow lyre markings, banded legs; not aggressive; short flight range; mildly attracted to light traps; high lab vector potential.
• C. Found only in salt marshes.
• D. Exotic species introduced in 2000.

Answer: (B)

Key idea: this species is best understood by its typical breeding habitat, distinctive markings, biting behavior, flight range, trap response, and potential to transmit viruses in lab tests.

Ochlerotatus japonicus is best described as a container breeder because its larvae develop in small, artificial containers found around homes and properties, such as tires, buckets, and rain-filled objects. Its appearance includes recognizable yellow lyre-shaped markings on the thorax and banded legs, which help distinguish it from other mosquitoes in the field. In terms of behavior, this species is not known for aggressive biting toward people and generally stays near its breeding sites, which translates to a relatively short flight range. For surveillance, it tends to be only mildly attracted to light traps, so relying solely on light traps can under-sample its true numbers. It also has high lab vector potential, meaning experiments show it can efficiently transmit certain arboviruses under controlled conditions, which underscores the importance of monitoring and reducing breeding sites to limit disease risk.

The other statements don’t fit as well: it’s not restricted to salt marshes, it doesn’t overwinter as adults, and its introduction to the U.S. occurred before 2000 rather than being introduced in 2000.