Characterization of the Mosquito Breeding Habitats in Two Urban Localities of Cairo Governorate, Egypt

Abstract

The knowledge of the natural characteristics of the mosquito breeding habitats is important for implementing effective larval control program. For this, the association of six mosquito species (Culex pipiens, Cx. perexiguus, Cx. pusillus, Ochlerotatus caspius, Anopheles multicolor and Culiseta longiareolata) with the physical characteristics of their breeding habitats was examined in El-Muqattam and Abu-Seir; of the urban areas in Cairo Governorate. Based on the highest frequency of occurrence (P<0.05) of mosquito larvae comparable to each habitat character, the determinant factors for breeding of such species were concluded. Such factors were in El-Muqattam: small sites (<10m perimeter), stagnant and clear water, absence of predators (Gambusia affinis) and absence of aquatic vegetations. In Abu-Seir: large sites (>10m perimeter), mud bottoms, presence of aquatic vegetations and absence of predators. The study concluded that the environmental control measures based on modifying habitat characteristics can be effective in controlling targeted mosquito species specially those vectors of diseases.