Question

Dallas, Texas had an outbreak of West Nile virus, a virus spread by mosquitos, in 2012. In 2012, the mosquito population increased dramatically. What are the limiting factors for these mosquitos? What changed in Dallas between 2011 and 2012?

A sample answer should include the following:

Limiting factors for this population:

Food source
Temperature
Mates
Space
Differences in Dallas between 2011 and 2012:

2012 was very hot in the Dallas area compared to 2011.
In 2012, Dallas had a drought, while the area had more rain in 2011.

Answer 1

The mosquito population boom in Dallas in 2012, which contributed to the spread of West Nile virus, was influenced by limiting factors such as temperature and water availability. The hot and dry conditions of 2012 compared to 2011's wetter climate provided favorable conditions for mosquito breeding and reduced their natural limiting factors.

Step-by-step explanation:

The limiting factors for the mosquito population in Dallas, which can spread West Nile virus, include access to a food source, suitable temperature, availability of mates, and sufficient space to live and breed. In 2012, Dallas experienced much hotter temperatures compared to 2011 and also went through a drought, reducing the competition for breeding sites and likely increasing the availability of stagnant water, which is an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. This contrasted with 2011, when there was more rainfall, which can wash away mosquito larvae and reduce their populations.

Therefore, the dramatic increase in mosquito population in 2012 could be attributed to these favorable conditions, which lowered the natural limiting factors for mosquitoes. This led to a higher risk of West Nile virus due to the increased mosquito vector population. In order to control such outbreaks, public health measures often focus on reducing mosquito populations by managing water sources, increasing public awareness, and sometimes through controlled pesticide use.