First molecular identification of mosquito vectors of Dirofilaria immitis in continental Portugal.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Canine dirofilariasis due to Dirofilaria immitis is known to be endemic in continental Portugal. However, information about the transmitting mosquito species is still scarce, with only Culex theileri identified to date, albeit with L1-2, through dissection. This study was carried out to investigate the potential vectors of Dirofilaria spp. in continental Portugal.

Methods

Mosquitoes were collected in three distinct seasons (Summer, Autumn and Spring), 2011-2013, in three districts. CDC traps and indoor resting collections were carried out in the vicinity of kennels. Mosquitoes were kept under controlled conditions for 7 days to allow the development of larval stages of Dirofilaria spp.. DNA extraction was performed separately for both head+thorax and abdomen in or

SUBMITTER: Ferreira CA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4369802 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature