During South-West monsoon season, Rubber
plantations in Kerala have been found to be transformed to
ideal ecosystems for the proliferation of mosquitoes,
including the vector species Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus.
Suspension of tapping during rainy season was mainly due to
climatic factors, which was further aggravated by economic
factors. One hectare of plantation was found providing 500
breeding sites in the form of rainwater-filled
latex-collecting containers, having nutrient-rich dry latex.
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