Abstract

Objective: To determine the mosquito vectors prevailing in Al-Ahsa, eastern region, Saudi Arabia. Methods: Monthly larval collections were conducted for one year by means of long dipper from different breeding sites in rural and semi-urban locations. Physical and chemical characteristics (pH, salinity and temperature of water) of positive sites were recorded. Results: The survey revealed the presence of 7 mosquito species [Aedes caspius, Anopheles multicolor, Culex perexiguus (Cx. perexiguus), Culex pipiens (Cx. pipiens), Culex pusillus, Culiseta langiareolata and Culiseta subochrea (Cs. subochrea)] representing 4 genera. Aedes, Ochlerotatus, Anopheles multicolor, Cx. perexiguus and Cx. pipiens mosquitoes are known as important vectors. Cs. subochrea is recorded for the first time in Al-Hufuf Oasis. Cx. pipiens was the most common species followed by Cx. perexiguus then Aedes caspius. Results also showed that mosquitoes were abundant in winter and spring seasons then declined in summer and autumn seasons. Conclusions: The present study is updating the total number of mosquito species of Al-Ahsa district, eastern province of Saudi Arabia by adding the newly record Cs. subochrea species. Furthermore, data obtained from the present study improve existing surveillance, assist in minimizing risk of disease transmission and develop vector management programs of the mosquitoes across this area.

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