Culicidae mosquito abundance in a preserved metropolitan area and its epidemiological implications

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To study the adult Culicidae fauna in a preserved area in urban outskirts for describing species of public health concern. METHODS: This study was developed in the Tietê Ecological Park located in the outskirt of the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Monthly collections were undertaken in three habitats at different times using electric aspirators and CDC and Shannon traps from August 1996 to March 1998. Data analysis was based on estimates of frequencies and abundance. RESULTS: Twenty-five species or generic groups were identified among 53,496 specimens collected. Ochlerotatus scapularis, Culex quinquefasciatus, and Culex declarator were the most frequent and abundant species. CONCLUSIONS: The most frequent and abundant species have been implicated in disease transmission to man in other regions. Attention must be given to these Culicidae since the study area is located near to an urban center, which could amplify the conditions for spreading vector diseases.