Removing Rats from a small Atoll also got rid of Mosquitos

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In summary, the introduction of rats on Palmyra Atoll during WW2 led to the extinction of mosquitoes on the island due to a lack of blood meals. This method of mosquito control may not work in areas with other mammal populations. Additionally, the presence of rats also provided places for mosquito eggs and larvae to develop. While most woodland mammals have thick fur, some mosquitoes may also feed on birds. The recent extermination of rats on the island has caused a decline in the number of mosquitoes. This method of controlling rat populations has been effective in preserving native bird species.
  • #1
BillTre
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Introduced rats from exterminated on Palmyra Atoll.
This seems to have deprived the mosquitos of blood meals the females need to produce eggs and they went extinct also.
Article here. Popular article here.
This probably would not work where other mammals are present.
 
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  • #2
I've always been curious how there there enough mammals to support mosquito populations. Most woodland mammals have thick fur. Deer I suppose are a primary target, but there aren't any in my backyard and some summer months there are swarms of mosquitoes. So where is the blood coming from?
 
  • #3
Apparently on this atoll, the only other mammals are the human researchers now.
The rats also provided places for the eggs/larvae, chewed open coconut shells.

In the woods there are also mice, squirrels opossums, raccoons, etc.
Some mosquitoes go after birds rather then humans, of course you tend to not notice them so much.
 
  • #4
BillTre said:
In the woods there are also mice, squirrels opossums, raccoons, etc.
Some mosquitoes go after birds rather then humans, of course you tend to not notice them so much.
I guess I'm just impressed they can get through fur and feathers. Sure makes us humans look like fast food! :biggrin:
 
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Is this some kind of "autocorrect" mess up ?
BillTre said:
Introduced rats from exterminated on Palmyra Atoll.
I can't read that in any way that makes sense... . o_O
 
  • #6
OCR said:
Is this some kind of "autocorrect" mess up ?

I can't read that in any way that makes sense... . o_O
No just a kind of typical mess:

The rats were introduced (not on purpose) in WW2 when the military made airbases were made there.
The rats were killing native birds etc.
Conservation people killed the rats off recently.
 
  • #7
BillTre said:
No just a kind of typical mess:
:ok: ...
 

FAQ: Removing Rats from a small Atoll also got rid of Mosquitos

How can removing rats from a small atoll get rid of mosquitos?

Rats are known to be one of the main predators of mosquitos. By removing rats from the atoll, the mosquito population will decrease as they will no longer have a predator to control their numbers. This will result in a decrease in the number of mosquitos on the atoll.

Are there any other benefits of removing rats from a small atoll?

Aside from reducing the mosquito population, removing rats from a small atoll can also have other positive effects on the ecosystem. Rats are known to be invasive species and can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem by preying on native species and destroying their habitats. By removing rats, the native species can thrive and maintain a healthy ecosystem.

How were the rats removed from the atoll?

The method of removing rats from the atoll can vary depending on the location and resources available. One common method is the use of traps or bait stations, where rats are attracted to the bait and are caught or killed. Another method is the use of biological control, where natural predators of rats are introduced to the atoll to control their population.

Will removing rats completely eliminate the mosquito population?

While removing rats can significantly reduce the mosquito population, it may not completely eliminate them. Other factors such as climate and availability of breeding sites can also affect the mosquito population. However, removing rats can greatly decrease the number of mosquitos on the atoll and make it a more comfortable living environment for humans and other animals.

Is removing rats from a small atoll a sustainable solution for controlling mosquitos?

Removing rats from a small atoll is considered a sustainable solution as it does not involve the use of harmful chemicals or pesticides. It is also a natural way of controlling the mosquito population without disrupting the balance of the ecosystem. However, regular monitoring and maintenance may be needed to ensure that the rat population does not return to control the mosquito population effectively.

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