Study of Effects of Plasmodium Infections on the Lifespan of Female Anopheles Mosquitoes

Abstract

This study examined the effects of plasmodium infections on the lifespan of female anopheles mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are the only known vector for plasmodium, which causes malaria. Malaria continues to be one of the leading causes of mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa, and one of the leading causes of infant mortality worldwide. Research has been underway to understand the relationships between vectors and the parasite in controlling the spread of diseases. There had been conflicting results about the effects, if any, of plasmodium infections on the lifespan of mosquitoes. This study reviewed literature from various researches to explore the relationships between plasmodium infections and the lifespan of mosquitoes. A total of 22 articles were reviewed and results were analyzed. Some of the studies did not show a significant relationship between plasmodium infections and the lifespan of mosquitoes, others showed a positive relationship and yet others a negative relationship. The review found that plasmodium infections do affect the lifespan of mosquitoes, but not independently. This study helps fill the gap in knowledge about plasmodium and mosquito relationships.