| Culex quinquefasciatus | |
|---|---|
| Left: male, right: female | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Diptera |
| Family: | Culicidae |
| Genus: | Culex |
| Species: | C. quinquefasciatus |
| Binomial name | |
| Culex quinquefasciatus Say, 1823 |
|
Culex quinquefasciatus (earlier known as Culex fatigans) is the vector of lymphatic filariasis caused by the nematode Wuchereria bancrofti in the tropics and sub tropics.
This is the primary vector of fiariasis in India. It is a strong winged domestic species seen all over India in and around human dwellings. Rapid urbanization and industrialization without adequate drainage facilities are responsible for its increased dispersal. The species is highly anthropophlic (they prefer human blood). They enter the houses at dusk and reach maximum density by midnight. The peak biting time is at midnight. Legs, particularly below the knee are the preferred biting sites. During day, it may be seen resting indoorson walls, underneath furniture, hanging cloths and in dark corners.
It breeds profusely in dirty water collections, viz. stagnant drains, cesspools, septic tanks with leak, burrow pits, and in fact all organic polluted water collection. In optimum temperature and humidity, the life cycle will be completed in 7 days, passing through the 4 stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult.
Reference: Parks Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, by K Park, 19th edition ,published by Bhanot Publishers, Jabalpur India.