Mückenatlas

The Mückenatlas, or Mosquito Atlas, is a citizen science project in Germany focused on mapping the distribution of mosquito species. It was initiated by the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM) in Hamburg, in collaboration with the Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI). The project aims to collect data on both native and introduced mosquito species, including those that may pose a risk as disease vectors.

Participants, often members of the public and local authorities, collect mosquito samples from their surroundings. These samples are then sent to the BNITM for identification. The collected data, including the species, location, and date of capture, contributes to a growing database that tracks the geographical spread and prevalence of various mosquito populations across Germany.

The Mückenatlas plays a crucial role in public health surveillance. By understanding where different mosquito species are found, scientists can better assess the potential risk of mosquito-borne diseases, such as West Nile virus or dengue fever, being introduced and established in Germany. The project also helps monitor the impact of climate change on mosquito ranges, as warmer temperatures can favor the expansion of certain species. The data generated is made publicly available, aiding researchers, public health officials, and the general public in understanding and responding to mosquito-related issues.