Application Examples
Model validation
The graph below shows Culex mosquito populations simulated by DyMSiM (blue line) compared to trap population data for Coachella Valley, California from 2005-2006 (Source: Morin and Comrie, 2010).
Mosquito Seasonality
This graph shows the simulated mosquito populations for 4 locations with distinctly different climates over a three year period: Miami, FL; Seattle, WA; Burlington, VT; and Tucson, AZ. Climate data were downloaded from the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) for the years of 2000-2002.
Tucson Mosquitoes: 2000-2001
The green line below shows the changes in mosquito population over a two year period. The general trend of the mosquitoes follows the temperature fluctuation throughout the year, with populations increasing during the warmer summer months and limited by cooler temperatures during the winter. Several spikes in the population can be seen lagging behind extreme precipitation events.
Miami Mosquitoes: 2000-2002
The population of mosquitoes in Miami closely follows the temperature trend, which appears to be the main limiting factor in this area. Mosquitoes can be supported throughout most of the year, with the exception of a short period during the winter, which can be noted by the population crashes. Decreases in population can also be seen during periods of exceptionally high temperatures, which can also limit mosquito survival. As noted in other locations, extreme precipitation events can trigger spikes in mosquito populations. However, because Miami receives sufficient rainfall throughout the year, it doesn’t appear to be a limiting factor on the population.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Mosquitoes: 2007-2008
The temperature in the Dominican Republic remains fairly constant throughout the year, however the simulated mosquito populations show significant fluctuation. The dips during the summer months are possibly associated with increased temperatures. Crashes in the population can be noted after periods of little rainfall, while high intensity rainfall events can trigger blooms in the population.
