French authorities launch expanded fight against tiger mosquito breeding

Small amounts of stagnant water in gardens and containers provide ideal breeding sites for the invasive tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). Only 2 ml of water can support egg laying, and the insect now inhabits 81 of France’s 96 departments, with 80 % of adults emerging from private property.

Bordeaux Metropole’s council approved a comprehensive roadmap to curb the mosquito’s proliferation. The plan includes mapping and surveillance of larval habitats, treatment of identified sites, and the creation of a “Pole of Excellence” for mosquito control in partnership with the regional health agency and a university. Training programmes will target municipal agents and private residents, teaching them how to eliminate hidden water reservoirs such as saucers under pots, bamboo cavities, gutters and rain‑water collectors.

The initiative aims to improve summer quality of life and reduce nuisance bites by addressing the primary source of mosquito growth – unattended water in domestic surroundings.