Ochlerotatus (Ochlerotatus) antipodeus Edwards, 1920
New Zealand Status: Endemic
Ochlerotatus antipodeus is a cold-adapted species with breeding occurring primarily in the colder months of the year (March to October). There is considerable variation in all life stages, but without geographical differentiation. Larvae are found in flood water ground pools in partial or dense shade in the bush (Belkin 1968).
Vector and Disease Information
The vector status of Ochlerotatus antipodeus is unknown (Holder 1999).
Distribution (see map)
New Zealand
Kaitaia to New Brighton (Miller & Phillipps 1952). North Auckland, Little Barrier Island, Gisborne, Wellington, Nelson, Westland, Canterbury, Otago, Stewart Island (Belkin 1968).
Rest of the World
Not present
Taxonomic Position
This species is placed in Section vigilax of subgenus Ochlerotatus, which also includes vigilax and 3 other species from the South Pacific.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis is the minimum set of characters and states that will separate this taxon from all others in this set of taxa.
| Diagnostic characters | State |
| Prespiracular setae | Absent |
| Lower mesepimeral setae (one or more) | Absent |
| Pale scales of proboscis | Absent |
| Tarsi of hind legs | Distinct white-scaled bands on at least some segments |
Characteristic Features
Medium to large dark species. Head: proboscis entirely dark scaled. Thorax: scutum with narrow dark bronzy scales and with a contrasting pattern of golden scales in narrow lines and patches (Belkin 1968).
