Probing and gorging responses of three mosquito species to a membrane feeding system at a range of temperatures.

Membrane feeding of 3 mosquito species, Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi, and Anopheles arabiensis, with formulated protein meals was carried out at a range of temperatures. The response was evaluated in terms of probing after 5 min, engorgement after 90 min, and 50% feeding time. Aedes aegypti showed a satisfactory feeding response across the complete temperature range investigated, 28-40 degrees C, although engorgement was significantly faster between 36 and 40 degrees C. Anopheles stephensi fed best between 32 and 40 degrees C. Anopheles arabiensis showed a poor probing and feeding response at all temperatures, although the best responses were recorded at 38-40 degrees C.