Diversity of disease-vector mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in the urban environment of Buraydah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Mosquitoes are one of the most significant vectors of diseases worldwide. They can transmit many viral and parasitic diseases to humans and animals. A survey was conducted in ten areas in Buraydah City to investigate the prevalence and distribution of mosquitoes in the area. The study involved the collection of adult mosquitoes using Blackhole light traps over a year, from January to December 2021. During this period, a total of 23,346 adult mosquitoes were collected and analyzed as part of the survey. The results showed the presence of several mosquito species, including Aedes aegypti, Ae. caspius, Culex pipiens, Cx. quinquefasciatus, Cx. citizens, and Anopheles d'thali. This mosquito survey revealed the dominance of Cx. mosquitoes, with 21,216 mosquitoes collected out of a total of 23,346, representing 91% of the total. In contrast, the Aedes genus was the second most prevalent species, with 1,860 mosquitoes collected, representing 8% of the total mosquito population. Anopheles mosquitoes were remarkably low, with only 270 individuals collected, representing less than 1% of the total mosquito population. The survey revealed that mosquitoes are present throughout the year, but their density varies due to monthly changes in temperature and humidity. Furthermore, the first documented sighting of the Ae. aegypti mosquito in the city was recorded. This finding represents a serious public health concern, as Ae. aegypti is a known vector of diseases, especially dengue fever. Therefore, there is an urgent need to enhance mosquito surveillance and control measures in Buraydah to mitigate the risks of mosquito-borne disease outbreaks.