Gene Flow in Anopheles arabiensis and seasonal radiation: potential for winter larviciding

The project, using molecular techniques (polymorphic microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA markers), describes the dynamics and population genetics of a seasonally fluctuating vector population (Anopheles arabiensis) in northeastern Kwazulu/Natal and compares the relative importance of resident (possibly dormant) mosquitoes as opposed to immigrants in founding the wet season population expansions and malaria epidemics. It also tests the efficacy of targeting seasonally varying populations for control intervention during the period when they are least abundant.

Collaborators

Dr C Roper, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK ; Medical Research Council

Funding

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Development, UK