UH Hilo Center for Maunakea Stewardship - Research Library

Avian malaria in Hawaii : the distribution, ecology and vector potential of forest-dwelling mosquitoes

Author:
LaPointe, Dennis A.
Title:
Avian malaria in Hawaii : the distribution, ecology and vector potential of forest-dwelling mosquitoes
Year:
2000
Volume:
Ph.D.
Pages:
xv, 156 p.
Subject:
Avian malaria Birds diseases Plasmodium
Summary:
Field and laboratory studies were conducted to determine the distribution and vector potential of mosquitoes involved in the transmission of avian malaria, Plasmodium relictum, in Hawaii. Culex quinquefasciatus was determined to be the vector of avian malaria in native Hawaiian forest bird habitat. Culex quinquefasciatus populations displayed a distinct seasonality with peak numbers occurring in August to September and mosquitoes absent from the high forest (>900 meters) from February to April. Mosquito abundance was positively correlated to mean monthly temperature at the time of collection and up to two months prior to collection. Plasmodium relictum -infected mosquitoes were found at all elevations except 1800 meters. The altitudinal distribution of infected mosquitoes indicates that transmission is greatest in the mid-elevation (900-1500 meters) forests inhabited by native birds.
Collection:
Monographs