Prevalence of vector species of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) and their habitat drivers in District Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab (India) and its surrounding areas

Abstract

Mosquito-borne diseases continue to be a public health concern in many parts of India, particularly in regions where agriculture and peri-urban development create diverse mosquito habitats. This study examines the incidence and abundance of vector mosquito species in District Fatehgarh Sahib and adjoining areas over four years (2021–2024). A total of 23 mosquito species were recorded, of which ten were medically important vectors. Culex quinquefasciatus was the most dominant species, accounting for more than two-thirds of all the specimens, followed by species belonging to the Culex vishnui subgroup and genus Aedes. Seasonal analysis revealed that the monsoon and post-monsoon periods supported the highest mosquito densities, primarily due to the increased availability of stagnant and temporary water bodies. The study also identifies key ecological drivers responsible for vector buildup, including agricultural irrigation, polluted wastewater, domestic water storage, rainfall, and peri-domestic containers. These findings underscore the importance of habitat-based vector control and continuous surveillance in reducing disease risk in the region.