DISTRIBUTION AND BIONOMICS OF ANOPHELES SINENSIS, AND ITS ROLE INMALARIA TRANSMISSION IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

Research on Anopheles mosquitoes in Singapore had been neglected because of the malaria-free status of Singapore since 1982. In 2009, Anopheles sinensis mosquitoes, which was not known to be a malaria vector in Singapore, was found to be a potential vector at two local malaria outbreak areas. The investigation of the taxonomic status, vectorial capacity, distribution and bionomics of An. sinensis were pursued. Through this study, it was confirmed that An. sinensis in Singapore is Form A, and experimentally incriminated this species as Plasmodium vivax vector, They are widespread in Singapore, highly anthropophagic and actively seeking host throughout the night. Being a vector that is widely distributed and highly anthropophilic-nature, it is crucial to formulate and implement vector control efforts against An. sinensis Form A with information derived from biological characteristics, to preempt malaria transmission and reduce malaria risk in Singapore.