Species composition and seasonal abundance of mosquito vectors in a rice growing community in Kwara State, North Central, Nigeria

Abstract :

Studies were carried out to determine the species composition and seasonal abundance of mosquito fauna in Lafiagi, a swampy rice growing community in Kwara State, Nigeria. Adult mosquitoes were collected weekly by both indoor and outdoor methods using human landing catches and residual spray techniques between August 2009 and July 2010. Four species of mosquitoes namely, Anopheles gambiae sensu lato, Culex quinquefasciatus, Mansonia africana and Aedes aegypti were caught during the study. Anopheles gambiae s.l accounted for the highest number of mosquitoes caught (39.61%). Though, there was no significant difference in species abundance (p>0.05), the seasonal abundance showed significant variation with more mosquitoes during the wet season than the dry season.  The preponderance of the mosquito vectors (most importantly the malaria vector) in the community signifies the need for planning effective mosquito control measures to maintain the healthy living of the residents at the study area towards ensuring food security


Keyword :

Mosquitoes, seasonal abundance, rice growing community, Nigeria


Author(s) : Ajao, A. M., Adeleke, M. A.
Downloads : 1609
Published Issue : 2014 Vol. 9 Number 2


2014 Vol. 9 Number 2