Development and evaluation of nectar-based lures for the management of selected mosquito disease vectors

Previous studies have shown that nectar feeding forms an important component of mosquito dietary requirement of a number of Anopheles, Aedes and Culex species. However, the nectar sources of some of the major vectors of important vector borne diseases such as malaria, dengue and Rift Valley fever are not known.

We are using a combination of biochemical and molecular approaches to establish feeding including the identity of such plants in vectors of these diseases. Further, an understanding of the preference and knowledge of the volatile organic compounds from preferred plants mediating such behaviors is being exploited with the goal to develop and deploy more potent lures for the surveillance and control of these vectors.

Funding:

• Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida)