Advancing canopy-level entomological surveillance to monitor vector-borne and zoonotic disease dynamics

Abstract

Faced with the increased frequency of zoonotic spillover in recent decades, emerging vector-borne diseases from nonhuman primates pose a significant threat to global public health. Understanding transmission dynamics driven by arthropod vectors between wildlife populations is critical for surveillance, modeling, and mitigation. Elevated canopy-level sampling is a valuable approach for elucidating vector behavior and sylvatic transmission. However, this is underused in many regions because of the logistical and mechanical challenges of repurposing ground-based trapping for the forest canopy. We review methods of canopy-level entomological surveillance, present case studies, and identify opportunities to integrate new technologies. Paired with robust experimental design, canopy-level trapping can complement existing surveillance of emerging zoonotic diseases and provide critical insights into the role of vectors driving spillover risks.

Keywords: arbovirus; entomological surveillance; malaria; sylvatic transmission; vertical stratification; zoonotic and vector-borne diseases.