Species Diversity and some Factors that Influence the Distribution and Abundance of Indoor Malaria Vector in Ndiegu Community in Ebonyi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria
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Abstract
Malaria transmission is primarily driven by infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, which makes it a significant global health concern. This study
examined the species diversity and some factors that influence the distribution and abundance of indoor malaria vector species in Ndiegu Community in Ebonyi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. Vector sampling was conducted in 60 randomly selected households using a pyrethrum spray catch (PSC) from January to August, 2024. Anopheles mosquitoes were collected between 6:00 and 8:00. The samples were identified in the laboratory using morphological keys. The indoor temperature and humidity were monitored using a thermo-hygrometer. Data analysis was performed using SPSS (version 25.0) with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. Vector diversity and distribution were assessed using Shannon-Weiner, Simpson’s, Equitability, and Margalef’s indices. In total, 176 Anopheles mosquitoes were collected, predominantly Anopheles gambiae (91.8%), followed by Anopheles funestus (5.7%), Anopheles rufipes (2.3%), and Anopheles hancocki (0.6%). Peak vector densities occurred in June (1.12), with a decline in July (0.83) and another peak in August (0.88). The distribution of Anopheles species varied across villages, with the highest abundance in
Edukwuinyima (37.5%) and the lowest in Edukwuegbu (11.36%). The seasonal abundance of Anopheles was greater during the rainy season, with 171 mosquitoes compared to 5 during the dry season. Rainy-season indoor temperatures ranged from 30.2°C to 31.0°C, while dry-season temperatures were between 27°C and 29.2°C. Relative humidity was higher during the rainy season (74% -78%) than in the dry season (68% -71%). The significant abundance and diversity of Anopheles mosquitoes, particularly during the rainy season, suggest a growing risk of mosquito-borne disease transmission in the study area.
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