Molecular identification of sibling species in the <i>Anopheles gambiae</i> complex using PCR in Bauchi State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria vector control programs in Bauchi State, Nigeria, rely on accurate identification of mosquito species. This study aimed to determine the composition of the Anopheles gambiae sibling species complex in the region. Using Pyrethroid spray collection, 6935 adult mosquitoes were collected, and 1000 female Anopheles gambiae complex mosquitoes were analyzed using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-based molecular identification. Results showed that Anopheles gambiae coluzzii and Anopheles gambiae arabiensis are the predominant malaria vectors in the study area, comprising 65% and 30% of the analyzed samples, respectively, while other species made up 5%. These findings are consistent with studies from similar ecological zones in northern Bauchi State and other parts of Nigeria. Notably, our results differ from those reported in the Sudan Savannah region, where Anopheles gambiae s.s. is more prevalent, highlighting the importance of molecular identification in understanding the complex dynamics of malaria transmission in the region.