Habitat heterogeneity and green filamentous algae influence the larval ecology of Anopheles stephensi during the dry season in Eastern Ethiopia.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The recent invasion of Anopheles stephensi, an urban-adapted malaria vector, poses a threat to malaria elimination efforts in Africa. Understanding the larval ecology of this mosquito during the dry season, which represents a potential population bottleneck due to limited larval habitats and harsher environmental conditions, is critical for informing targeted interventions.

Methods

We conducted systematic surveys in three climatically distinct Ethiopian cities-Semera, Logiya and Jigjiga-during the dry season of 2023. A total of 523 water-holding habitats were identified and characterized for the presence and productivity of An. stephensi immature stages. Habitat characteristics, including container type, floating algal mass presence, cover status and water chemist

SUBMITTER: Gebresilassie A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12619324 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature