Effects of irradiation, presence of females, and sugar supply on the longevity of sterile males Aedes albopictus (Skuse) under semi-field conditions on Reunion Island

► We evaluated the longevity of males Aedes albopictus under semi-field conditions. ► The impact of radio-sterilization, sugar supply, and mating activity was tested. ► Sterilization and mating activity reduced male longevity. ► Immediate sugar feeding could compensate for these impairments. ► Providing sugar sources prior to release during SIT programmes appeared critical.