Density, distribution, and habitat association of Culex tritaeniorhynchus in rural regions of Rajkot District, Gujarat, India

Abstract

An extensive study was conducted to relate seasons, for field survey and sample collection were attempted for the first time in the rural villages area surrounding Rajkot City to explore and investigate the breeding and resting habitat preferences and distribution pattern of Culex tritaeniorhynchus species. Seven villages were identified for the Species identification, larval as well as adult density, and distribution of breeding sites of the species were studied in the rural villages. Results show that the highest density of adult Culex tritaeniorhynchus was recorded in the monsoon, while post-monsoon was most favourable to breeding in this region, and starts decreasing density during winter, causing the temporary breeding site to dry out because no precipitation then reaches the lowest density during hot post-summer seasons. Minimum density was recorded in April-May because of the temperature increase and temporary breeding sites drying out. It was clearly indicated that climatic conditions (temperature, rainfall, humidity, etc.), natural and manmade breeding sites play a vital role in the density and distribution.