The Polynesian tiger mosquito (Aedes (Stegomyia) polynesiensis) is found only in the South Pacific. It is a peridomestic species with a similar feeding and breeding behavior to the Asian tiger mosquito. Throughout its range, the Polynesian tiger mosquito is an important vector of the parasite that causes lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis). It is also suspected to be a vector of the dengue virus.

In field tests in July-August 2005 on the island of American Samoa, four types of mosquito trap were tested with Aedes polynesiensis. The BG-Sentinel trap was clearly the most effective. More information on this study will be available in the future. (Picture:   Gerald McCormack / Cook Islands Natural Heritage Trust.)