Morphometry of the wings of Anopheles aquasalis in simulated scenarios of climate change.

Abstract

Climate change has significant implications on ecosystems. We verified the effects of climate change on the malaria vector Anopheles aquasalis using simulated climate change scenarios (SSCCs). An experimental model was designed for SSCCs, which composed of air-conditioned 25 m3 rooms. The wing size was significantly different between SSCCs. A colony of Anopheles aquasalis could not be established in extreme scenarios. Increases in temperature and CO2 in the atmosphere may modify the global epidemiology of malaria, marking its emergence in currently malaria-free areas.