Ecological, Biological And Genetic Structure Of The Dengue Vector Aedes Albopictus From Different Developed Settlements In Penang Island
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Date
2017-08
Authors
Muhammad, Nor Atikah Farhah
Journal Title
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Volume Title
Publisher
Universiti Sains Malaysia
Abstract
Aedes mosquito populations associated with human habitation in Penang urban area do not only have the potential to cause biting nuisance, but also cause significant public health risks through the transmission of dengue virus. Every year, dengue virus infects over 100 million people and efforts to reduce dengue incidence are still ongoing. An efficient control of its vector requires a deeper understanding on ecological, biological and molecular components of this vector. Thus, this study was conducted in three phases; to determine the flight distance of Ae. albopictus in an urban area, evaluate the biting rhythm, fecundity and longevity rate of Ae. albopictus and investigate the genetic structure of Ae. albopictus in relation to urbanization level in Penang Island. The study of Ae. albopictus dispersal through mark-release-recapture experiment were indicated daily mean distance travelled of Ae. albopictus is between 132 to 154 m. Based on the maximum observed distance travelled from this study also suggested that the females can fly up to 250 m, and if infected, they could potentially spread the virus rapidly. The second part of this study revealed a clear bimodal biting activity, with morning and evening twilight peaks in all mosquito strains. Meanwhile, the fecundity and longevity rates were shown to be significantly higher for mosquito strains from urban areas compared to the other strains (P < 0.05). Finally, a total of 42 Ae. albopictus females were successfully analyzed for polymorphism at six microsatellite loci and overall loci showed low genetic structure among geographic populations (FST = 0.0362) suggesting that high gene flow occurred between the populations might be due to passive dispersal through human transportation. The findings from the study would provide crucial and relevant fundamental information to the planning of vector control program in Malaysia, particularly Penang Island. The spread of Ae. albopictus needs particular attention from the vector-borne diseases control unit to reduce the health risks that may be brought by these dengue vectors.
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Keywords
Aedes mosquito populations associated with , human habitation in Penang urban area