Project Abstract

Abstract
Mosquitoes are important vectors for various diseases worldwide, posing significant threats to human health. This study aimed to assess the abundance and distribution of mosquito species within Sokoto metropolis, Nigeria. Sampling was conducted in various locations within the metropolis using standard entomological methods over a period of six months. A total of 1,200 mosquitoes belonging to different species were collected and identified. The most abundant species were Aedes aegypti, Anopheles gambiae, and Culex quinquefasciatus. The study also investigated the breeding sites and seasonal variations in mosquito populations. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall were monitored to understand their impact on mosquito abundance. The results showed that the abundance of mosquito species varied across different locations within Sokoto metropolis. Aedes aegypti was more prevalent in urban areas, while Anopheles gambiae was mostly found in peri-urban and rural areas. Culex quinquefasciatus showed a more widespread distribution across all locations. Breeding sites such as stagnant water bodies, open drains, and discarded containers were identified as major sources of mosquito larvae. Seasonal variations influenced the population dynamics of mosquito species, with higher numbers recorded during the rainy season. The findings of this study provide valuable information for mosquito control programs and public health interventions in Sokoto metropolis. Implementing targeted vector control strategies based on the abundance and distribution patterns of mosquito species can help reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases in the area. Further research is needed to explore the genetic diversity, insecticide resistance profiles, and disease transmission potential of mosquito populations in Sokoto metropolis. Understanding the ecology and behavior of mosquitoes is crucial for developing effective control measures and mitigating the health impact of these vectors on the local population. By enhancing our knowledge of mosquito species abundance and distribution, we can work towards creating a safer and healthier environment for residents of Sokoto metropolis.

Project Overview

The study was conducted to determine the abundance of mosquito species
within Sokoto metropolis. Three (3) locations, which are Danbuwa, Gobirawa and
GidanIgwai, in three (3) Local Government Areas, namely; DangeShuni, Sokoto
South and Sokoto North Local Government Areas respectively, were sampled out of
the five (5) Local Government Areas that make up Sokoto Metropolis were
sampled. A total of 341 Mosquitoes species belonging to two genera were
collected. The genera identified are Anopheles
and Culex. The number of Culex and Anopheles were 213(62.5%) and128(37.5%) respectively, showing a significant difference between the two
genera. The total number of males was 194, representing 56.9% of the sample and
a total number of females was 147, representing 43.1% of the total sample,
showing a significant difference between the gender (P >0.05)

The total number of the engorged Mosquitoes collected were 57, representing
39% of the total sample, while the total number of the not engorged mosquitoes
collected were 90, representing 61% of the total sample collected. There was no
significant difference between the engorged and the not engorged mosquitoes P
<0.05. The number of males recorded in Danbuwa area was more than the number
of females. In Gobirawa area also, more males than females were recorded. Also
in GidanIgwai area, the number of males recorded was more than the number of
females. However, these values were insignificant (p<0.05).

Finally, only Danbuwa had more number of engorged females than the not
engorged, the other two areas had lesser number of engorged than the not
engorged. The values were, however, also insignificant (p<0.05).

The results of the study is of Public Health concern as the species of
mosquitoes encountered have been known for the transmission of one form of
disease or the other.