Understanding Aedes aegypti and Wolbachia

The video discusses the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which spreads diseases like dengue and Zika. A breakthrough using Wolbachia bacteria, which naturally occurs in many insects, prevents these mosquitoes from transmitting diseases. Wolbachia affects insect reproduction, ensuring its spread through populations. Researchers successfully injected Wolbachia into Aedes aegypti eggs, leading to mosquitoes that naturally pass the bacteria to their offspring. Testing in communities showed a significant decrease in dengue cases, offering hope for protecting billions at risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Where did the Aedes aegypti mosquito originally come from?

• Africa

• South America

• Australia

• Asia

Which of the following diseases is NOT transmitted by Aedes aegypti?

• Yellow fever

• Zika

• Malaria

• Dengue

What is Wolbachia?

• A type of virus

• A naturally occurring bacteria

• A mosquito species

• A chemical pesticide

In which insects is Wolbachia naturally found?

• Bees and ants

• Beetles and wasps

• Spiders and scorpions

• Fruit flies and butterflies

What happens when a male insect with Wolbachia mates with a female without it?

• Eggs hatch but do not carry Wolbachia

• Eggs do not hatch

• No eggs are laid

• All eggs hatch normally

How is Wolbachia introduced into Aedes aegypti mosquitoes?

• Through feeding

• Through natural mating

• Using microscopic needles

• By spraying

What was the result when Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes were exposed to dengue?

• The virus grew rapidly

• The virus mutated

• The virus did not grow well

• The mosquitoes died

How often were Wolbachia mosquitoes released in the field trials?

• Daily

• Every two weeks

• Once a week

• Once a month

What was the long-term result of releasing Wolbachia mosquitoes in communities?

• Dengue cases remained the same

• Dengue cases decreased

• No change in mosquito population

• Dengue cases increased

What is the ultimate goal of the Wolbachia control method?

• To develop new pesticides

• To increase mosquito population

• To reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases

• To eliminate all mosquitoes