Abundance And Species Composition of Common Mosquito Species in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State Nigeria

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the abundance and species composition of common mosquito species in Makurdi metropolis. Larval sampling was carried out for one year (April 2021 – March 2022) from six locations using pole-mounted larval dipper with handle and clutches (WHO, 2005). The specimens were identified morphologically using standard descriptor guide aided by the use of taxonomic keys/aids, light microscope and mosquito experts.Data analysis was done using the Chi square and analysis of variance tools of the SPSS 20.0 version. Decision was taken at 95% confidence limit (P≤0.05 level of significance). From the study, Culex quinquefasciatus recorded the highest abundance of 2418 (56.0%) among all the species found out of a total number of 4,320 samples collected within 12 months. Abundance of Anopheles mosquito was the same in all location since Chi-square analysis did not show significant association (χ²= 5.00, P= 0.416 (P>0.05). However, Gboko road had the highest number of Anopheles  mosquito samples of 397 (20.9%) dominated by A. funestus (21.8%) and A. gambiae (21.3%) while Kanshio location recorded the lowest with a total of 186 mosquitoes (9.8%).Anopheles mosquito was dominated by A. gambiae with a total number of 1,040 samples collected with prevalence of 24.1%. While A. gambiae was highest at High Level location (23.2%) A. funestus was mostly found at Wurukum location (22.2%). The population of Anopheles species was more predominant in the wet seasons (April- September, 2011) than during the dry season (October, 2011- March, 2022). Culex quinquefasciatus had its peaks of abundance in April, 2021 [265 (52.7%)] and March, 2022 [302 (58.9%)]. This information may be useful in the control of mosquito and malaria infection in Makurdi, Benue State.