Distribution of mosquito species in various agro-ecological zones of Punjab

Abstract

Background: The presence and behavior of mosquitoes in various agro-ecological zones of Punjab are influenced by a combination of seasonal and topographical patterns, cropping schemes, and human settlement. These modifications have a significant impact on the occurrence of diseases. Therefore, determining the distribution of these species could help in halting their spread and disease outbreaks. Methods: Under these prevailing conditions, surveillance studies were carried out at six zones of Punjab, to know the distribution of mosquitoes. Samples were collected in various seasons (once in winter and rainy seasons, and twice in summer), from all possible habitats, having stagnant water. Results: Out of twenty-four (24) recorded species, three were included in Anophelinae and Culicinae, eleven from tribe Aedini, eight from Culicini and one each from Ficulbiini and Mansoniini. Sampling was done from 91 m (Ahmed Pur East) elevation to 1759 m (Fort Monroe). High and diversified population was recorded during rainy season. The Anopheline mosquitoes were found in rural as well as urban habitats, including rainfed, wet mountains and irrigated plains whereas Aedine species were confined to northern irrigated plains and mostly recorded from Changa Manga National Forest. Culicine species were more diversified and abundant, in all seasons. However, M. chamberlaini was collected from urban (rainfed lands) and rural (northern irrigated plains) settings. C. crassipes was recorded only from rainfed lands. Conclusion: Twenty-four mosquito species from the Anophelinae and Culicinae subfamilies were observed in the current investigation. Anophelinae subfamily contained three species. Eleven species of Culicinae belonged to the tribe Aedini, eight to the Culicini, and one each to the Mansoniini and Ficalbiini.

Keywords

• GPS
• Mosquito species
• Punjab
• Zone