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A SURVEY OF OPEN LARVAL HABITATS OF MOSQUITOES

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Mosquitoes are vectors of several diseases, posing significant health risks globally. Understanding their breeding habitats is crucial for effective vector control and disease prevention. Larval survey of open habitats of mosquitoes was carried out in Awka, Isiagu, Nibo and Umuawulu communities in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State. The study was carried out from May-July 2011 during the wet season and December 2011-February 2012 in the dry season. The collection of larvae of mosquitoes was done using dipper and pipette. Nike Flyknit Air Max Heren Five larval habitats of mosquitoes namely ground pools, drains/gutter, used tyres, discarded domestic containers and tree holes/leaf axils were identified in the wet season while only ground pool along river bank was identified in the dry season survey. A total of 343 larvae of mosquitoes belonging to three genera and five species were collected and identified. These were Aedes aegypti 43.4% (149/343), Culex quinquefasciatus 25.4% (87/343), Culex tigripes 15.5% (53/343), Anopheles gambiae 12.5% (43/343), and Anopheles funestus 3.2% (11/343). Culex quinquefasciatus had the highest distribution in ground pools (36.7%) followed by Anopheles gambiae (33.7%). In drains/gutters, Culex tigripes had the highest distribution of 37.9% followed by A. aegypti and other species. In used tyres, only larvae of A. aegypti and C. Nike Darwin Goedkoop quinquefasciatus were identified. Nike Air Max 95 Prem Tape Dame Similar result was obtained for domestic discarded containers where A. aegypti and C. quinquefasciatus were collected. The only larvae of mosquitoes found in tree holes/leaf axils were C. Nike Air Max 2016 Dame tigripes. Nike Air Max Dame The result also showed that Anopheles gambiae and A. funestus bred only in ground pools and drains/gutters. Only larvae of Anopheles gambiae and Culex quinquefasciatus were identified in the dry season survey near river bank in vegetable farms. Air Max 2015 Zwart Blauw Rood Goedkoop Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference (p>0.05) in identified larval habitats and among species of mosquitoes in various larval habitats in the wet season v There was however significant difference (p<0.05) in larval distribution in wet and dry seasons. Adequate knowledge of larval habitats of mosquitoes will help inform better environmental management in the control of mosquito-borne diseases.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite efforts in mosquito control, the identification and management of open larval habitats remain challenging, contributing to sustained mosquito populations and disease transmission.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to determine the open larval habitats of mosquitoes. Specific objectives include:

i. To evaluate the impact of environmental factors on the distribution of mosquito larval habitats.

ii. To determine the species diversity of mosquitoes breeding in open larval habitats.

iii. To find out the seasonal variations in the prevalence of mosquito larvae in open habitats.

1.4 Research Questions

i. What is the influence of environmental factors like temperature and humidity on the distribution of mosquito larval habitats?

ii. What are the different mosquito species found in open larval habitats?

iii. How does the prevalence of mosquito larvae vary across different seasons in open habitats?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study will provide crucial insights into the specific environments that support mosquito breeding, aiding in targeted control measures and reducing disease transmission risks in affected communities.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on identifying and characterizing open larval habitats of mosquitoes in a specific geographic area, considering environmental and seasonal variations.

1.7 Limitations of the Study

Limitations may include constraints in sampling methods, weather variability affecting fieldwork, and potential biases in larval habitat identification.

1.8 Definition of Terms

Open Larval Habitats: Breeding grounds of mosquitoes that are accessible and not confined, such as stagnant water bodies, puddles, and containers.