Studies on breeding habitats and density of postembryonic immature filarial vector in a filarial endemic area

Abstract

ObjectiveTo obtain a complete and systematic data about the breeding habitats and density of immature vector (larvae and pupae) in a filaria endemic area. MethodsAll the possible permanent and temporary water bodies were surveyed systematically. Four hundred samples were taken in each season from each type of habitats. Sampling was done with a 250 mL dipper and immature mosquito was identified following sdandered keys. ResultsIn summer, rainy and winter seasons, overall 49.64%, 44.64% and 28.57% of the habitats were positive for immature vector Culex quinquefasciatus respectively; 36.93%, 35.11% and 21.18% of the samples were positive respectively. In the study year overall PDD were much higher in open cesspits (19.53) and drains (17.24) than in other habitats. Peak PDD of mosquito immature in Dobas (ditches), open cesspits and drains were in March; whereas in paddy fields and temporary water bodies peak PPD were in September and overall per dip densities (PDD) of immature were 10.29, 10.18 and 4.40 respectively. ConclusionsDobas, paddy fields, open cesspits, drains and temporary water bodies were found to be the main breeding sites of the vector in different months. Open cesspits and drains were most suitable almost throughout the year with peak in summer. Dobas also act as a steady breeding site throughout the year, whereas temporary water bodies immerge as strong breeding site during pre-monsoon to monsoon season. Information about the breeding habitats will be helpful to formulate filarial vector, Cx. quinquefasciatus control strategy and in turn to control the filarial diseases in the study area.