Investigation of the Diversity of Fauna and Larval Habitat Characteristics of Culex Mosquitoes, the Potential Arboviruses Vectors in South East of Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Arboviruses have been a persistent public health challenge in Iran for the past 50 years. Culex mosquitoes are the main vectors of these viruses. Different aspects of these vectors, including their phenotypic characteristics, insecticide resistance, and the potential for infection transmission, were regularly reported from different parts of the world. The present study aimed to determine the fauna and prevalence of the Culex larval stage in four sites in Kerman province, Iran from March to September 2019. Method: In total, 450 samples of Culex mosquito larvae were collected and identified using valid taxonomic keys. Physical and biological characteristics data of the larval habitats, including water situation, sunlight situation, and habitat kind, were recorded. Results: Two Culex species, Culiseta longiareolata and Culex quinquefasciatus, were detected with prevalence rates of 88.8% and 11.2%, respectively. The recorded temperatures in larval habitats ranged from 16 to 28 ◦C. Kerman City, Iran exhibited the highest prevalence of detected Culex mosquito larvae among the studied areas. Moreover, Rayen City and Sirjan City in Iran had the lowest and highest temperature rates, respectively. The temporary habitats were the most prevalent sites for larvae collection. Conclusion: This study provided a snapshot of the predominant Culex mosquito fauna in Kerman, serving as a foundation for future molecular studies, identification of insecticide-resistant fauna, and exploration of the potential for initial transmission and continuation of zoonotic infections.