Which of the following is the most important fresh floodwater mosquito in New Jersey?

The most important fresh floodwater mosquito in New Jersey is Aedes sollicitans. This species is notable for its significant role in public health due to its ability to transmit various diseases. Aedes sollicitans is especially prevalent in coastal and low-lying areas, where it breeds in temporary water sources created by flooding or heavy rain.

This mosquito is particularly adapted to thrive in floodplain habitats, making it more consequential for human interactions and raising its relevance in pest management.

While the other species mentioned do have importance in their own right, they do not fill the same role in the context of fresh floodwater populations specifically as Aedes sollicitans does. For example, Aedes vexans, while also an important pest, typically prefers other habitats. Culex pipiens, commonly known for its role as a vector of West Nile virus, primarily breeds in stagnant water rather than flood conditions. Aedes canadensis has a more limited distribution and is less associated with the significant public health concerns linked to fresh floodwater habitats.