Population genetics, vector competence and seasonality of Primary, secondary and suspected malaria vectors in water Resources development area of Ethiopia

Abstract

Malaria control efforts have significantly reduced disease burden, however primarily focus on primary malaria vectors, potentially overlooking the impact of secondary and suspected species. This narrow focus, coupled with the emergence of insecticide resistance in primary vectors and changes in their behavior, necessitates the exploration of alternative control strategies. Additionally, water resource development projects, while crucial for agriculture, can alter mosquito breeding sites, creating new challenges for malaria transmission. This study investigates the seasonal availability of larval habitats and mosquito abundance in irrigated sugar cane plantations to identify potential targets for larval control. Understanding the role of Thioester-containing protein 1 (TEP1), a key component of mosquito immunity, is crucial for developing effective and sustainable malaria control strategies by informing the development of novel interventions that target mosquito immune systems