Abundance and species diversity of mosquitoes (Diptera, Culicidae) in endemic areas for arboviruses in the Eastern Amazon, Brazil

Abstract

Combating the spread of arboviruses in the Amazon relies on understanding the diversity of Culicidae, particularly potential vectors. Areas with historical records of vector occurrence provide crucial insights into the factors driving epidemic emergence. Furthermore, anthropogenic activities, such as deforestation and demographic pressure on the forest, are considered the primary drivers of new outbreaks, creating a scenario of high ecological receptivity for pathogens of public health concern. This study aimed to estimate mosquito richness and abundance in arbovirus‐endemic areas within the districts of Carvão and Mazagão Velho, in the municipality of Mazagão, Amapá, Eastern Amazon. Four Culicidae sampling sites were established in each locality, utilizing CDC light traps and Human Landing Catch (HLC). Sampling campaigns began in January 2024 and concluded in December 2024, spanning both the rainy and less rainy seasons of the Amazon region. Specimens were identified at the Arthropoda Laboratory of the Federal University of Amapá. This research documented a total of 3.671 adult mosquitoes from the Culicidae family, encompassing 35 different species across 11 distinct genera. Only four genera are not considered arbovirus vectors in humans. The remaining genera include species of medical and epidemiological importance in arbovirus transmission, including species from the genera Anopheles , Aedes , Psorophora , Haemagogus , Culex , Coquillettidia and Mansonia . Environmental conditions favour high ecological receptivity for potential vectors, indicating a need for entomological surveillance near the study areas. Understanding the diversity of Culicidae reveals the importance of vector control in combating mosquito‐borne pathogens in the Amazon.