From invasion to infection: The worldwide expansion and arboviral transmission potential of Aedes albopictus

Abstract

The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, has emerged as a globally invasive vector of major public health concern. This review synthesises current evidence on its invasion biology, vector competence, ecological plasticity, and expanding epidemiological significance, with particular emphasis on arboviral transmission dynamics. A comprehensive review of experimental, field-based, and modelling studies was conducted to identify determinants of vector competence and transmission risk, including Wolbachia-mediated viral interference, temperature-driven changes in extrinsic incubation period, vertical transmission, insecticide resistance, insect-specific flaviviruses, and climate-associated range expansion. Ae. albopictus is less competent than Ae. aegypti for arbovirus transmission, temperature profoundly influences larval development, adult survival, biting frequency, external incubation period, and viral dissemination, thereby linking climate change to increased epidemic potential rather than mere geographic spread. Vertical transmission mainly sustains inter-epidemic persistence, while geographic variability in insecticide resistance influences transmission dynamics. The expanding distribution, ecological plasticity, and evolving insecticide resistance of Aedes albopictus underscore its growing role in global arboviral emergence. Climate change is projected not only to widen its geographic range into temperate regions but also to enhance transmission potential, increasing epidemic risk. With climate change, Ae. albopictus represents a growing global threat for arboviral disease emergence, demanding urgent policy action to strengthen early-warning surveillance, anticipate vector expansion, and implement innovative, sustainable control interventions before large-scale outbreaks occur.