Diversity and spatiotemporal distribution of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) with emphasis on disease vectors across agroecological areas of Kerala, India.

Mosquitoes are important vectors of several diseases that significantly impact public health globally. This multi-district mosquito survey revealed the diversity and distribution of mosquito species across varied agroecological areas in Kerala, India. Immature and adult mosquito collections were carried out using standard, appropriate sampling methods and the mosquitoes were identified using morphological characters. A total of 108 species belonging to 28 genera were identified from 12,535 specimens. Stegomyia albopicta was the predominant species (54.82%), followed by Culex quinquefasciatus (6.92%). Fourteen known disease vectors were taxonomically identified. Artificial (anthropogenic) habitats such as discarded plastic containers, tyres and latex collection cups contributed to the vector diversity compared to natural ones. Species richness and mosquito species diversity varied across districts, with Wayanad showing the highest diversity. Rarefaction analysis and species-area relationships revealed complex patterns of mosquito biodiversity in agroecological areas. Several rare species were recorded, including a newly described species, Heizmannia rajagopalani. This comprehensive surveillance provides valuable insights into the ecology of mosquitoes in various diverse ecological settings of Kerala, with significant implications for biodiversity conservation and efforts to control vectors.