Microevolutionary studies in Anopheles cruzii (Diptera: Culicidae), using geometric wing morphometry and microsatellite markers

Anopheles (Kertezsia) cruzii is an anthropophilic mosquito species that has known epidemiological potential, this mosquito is the main vector of human and simian malaria in Brazil, more precisely in regions of the Atlantic Forest, mainly in the State of São Paulo. In the municipality of São Paulo, An. cruzii is found mainly in two locations close to remaining fragments of the Atlantic Forest: Parque Estadual da Cantareira, where this species is incriminated in the transmission of Plasmodium to the howler monkeys that inhabit the region, and in the Environmental Protection Area (APA) – Engenheiro Marsilac, where this species was found infected with Plasmodium vivax and where there are autochthonous human cases of malaria. Despite its epidemiological potential, microevolutionary studies with this species remain scarce, mainly with specimens from the city of São Paulo. This project will take into account the epidemiological importance of An. cruzii and little information about its population structure. Knowledge of the genetic characteristics of this mosquito vector can be important for implementing control strategies and preventing outbreaks in areas where few cases of malaria occur, as is the case in the city of São Paulo.

Project details

Epidemiology
Vector Control

May 2016 — Mar 2020

Brazil