Epidemiological implications of preferences of breeding sites of mosquito species in Midwestern Nigeria.

The relative abundance of the aquatic stages of mosquito species distribution in two macrohabitats was studied between August 2001 and July 2002 using four different microhabitats (plastic cups, metal cans, bamboo cups and earthenware pots). The macrohabitats were subdivided into Areas of Derived/Secondary Vegetation (ADSV) and Areas of High Human Activities (AHHA). The results revealed mosquito species belonging to three genera (Anopheles, Culex and Aedes species), which are known vectors of four different human diseases (yellow fever, arboviruses in general, bancroftian filariasis, and malaria). Mosquito abundance in the three foci studied related to types of vegetation cover, amount of rainfall and its seasons, levels of human activities and population. Anopheles species were most abundant in both habitats, with a less marked effect of vegetation and human population. Culex species were relatively more abundant than Aedes in AHHA than in ADSV. Plastic containers supported 57,391 (47.4 %) and metal cans 42,782 (35.4 %) of larva species harvested. There is a significant difference in mosquito larva abundance in the two macrohabitats and different microhabitats studied (p < 0.05). A combination of factors account for abundant mosquitoes breeding in rural areas with their associated diseases implications. The result of the findings are discussed with respect to their public health implications.