Molecular Characterization of Anopheles gambiae s.l. from the Three Vegetation Zones in Rivers State, Nigeria

Understanding the genetic structure of mosquito populations is important for addressing biological and public health issues such as evolution, spread insecticide resistance alleles epidemiology vector-borne diseases. Anopheles gambiae s.l. comprised genetically distinct species that are morphologically indistinguishable. This study therefore aims to establish sibling molecular characterization responsible transmitting malaria parasites in three ecological zones. Sample collection was carried out during rainy season from May December which coincides with peak period vector abundance. Adults laboratory-reared, field-collected larvae this test-mosquitoes were used study. To characterize vectors, DNA extracted tissues An. samples, amplified identified by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Restricted fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) aided identify M ( coluzzi) S s.s.) forms. Neighbor-Joining method infer evolutionary history. s.s. (sibling species) present entire Rivers state while (S-form) predominates lowland forest vegetation coluzzi mangrove fresh water swamp vegetations. The sequenced samples vegetations closely related accession number KP165373.1. makes available baseline information on monitoring vectors State, Nigeria. Keywords: Molecular characterization, gambiae, vegetation, State. DOI: 10.7176/ALST/98-03 Publication date: June 30 th 2023