Ecological Determinants of Mosquito Larval Diversity in Aquatic Habitats of Northeastern Morocco

Abstract

The Eastern Rif region of northeastern Morocco has a remarkable diversity of aquatic ecosystems where mosquitoes can breed, including wadis, temporary pools, and coastal wetlands. Field research was conducted at 37 sampling points (18 inland lagoons, 6 coastal lagoons, and 12 temporary pools) throughout the Eastern Rif. Samples were collected intermittently, seasonally, and monthly between 2021 and 2023. A total of nearly 1,600 mosquito larvae belonging to 13 species and four genera (Aedes, Culex, Culiseta, and Uranotaenia) were identified. Culex pipiens was confirmed as the most abundant and widespread species, largely dominating inland lagoons that are often located near inhabited areas. In contrast, species such as Aedes detritus and Aedes caspius showed a marked preference for coastal and brackish ecosystems characterized by high electrical conductivity. This study provides new insights into the ecology of mosquito species, including data on their tolerance to various water parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen and conductivity) It also discusses the relationship between Culicidae diversity and the characteristics of their breeding habitats (type of water body, climate, and the level of human impact).