Aedes aegypti is a significant arbovirus vector responsible for transmitting diseases such as dengue, Zika, and yellow fever, which collectively cause millions of symptomatic cases globally each year. Consequently, extensive research has been conducted to understand the basic biology of these vectors and inform public health initiatives worldwide. The sensory behaviors which allow adult mosquitoes to forage and locate hosts have been thoroughly investigated, while less is known about chemosensory behaviors of the larvae. We conducted behavioral assays using custom-built arenas and an array of high-resolution cameras to evaluate the response of Aedes aegypti larvae exposed to chemosensory gradients. By analyzing poses using deep learning models that allow for precise tracking of individual anatomical features, we confirmed positive chemotaxis in response to food. This platform is now being used to explore larval functional anatomy, specifically those associated with chemosensation and olfaction, and their impact on larva behavior and foraging ability.
