Anopheles gambiae

Anopheles gambiae (pronounced: an-OFF-e-leez GAM-bee-ay) is a species of mosquito native to Africa. It is one of the best known and most studied, due to its role as a primary vector of human malaria.

Etymology

The name Anopheles is derived from the Greek ἀνώφελής (anōphelḗs), meaning "useless". Gambiae is named after the Gambia, the country in which it was first identified.

Description

Anopheles gambiae is a medium-sized mosquito with a distinctive dark coloration. It is most active during the night, and is known for its preference for human blood, which it requires for the development of its eggs.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Anopheles gambiae consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The female lays her eggs on the surface of fresh or salt water. The eggs hatch into larvae, which feed on aquatic organisms and organic material. The larvae then transform into pupae, which do not feed but instead undergo metamorphosis into adults.

Role in Malaria Transmission

Anopheles gambiae is a primary vector of Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes the most severe form of human malaria. The mosquito becomes infected when it feeds on a person who has malaria. The parasite then develops in the mosquito's body and can be transmitted to another person when the mosquito feeds again.

Prevention and Control

Efforts to control Anopheles gambiae and reduce its impact on human health include the use of insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor residual spraying, and larval source management. Research is also being conducted on genetic methods of control, such as the creation of genetically modified mosquitoes that are resistant to the malaria parasite.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Anopheles gambiae
Wikipedia's article - Anopheles gambiae

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Anopheles gambiae