Female Anopheles Mosquito Gut Microbiota: Significance and Plasmodium Survival

Abstract

The mosquito gut microbiota, comprising of prokaryotic communities, plays a crucial role in the biology of Anopheles mosquitoes and their ability to transmit Plasmodium parasites. The microbial community impacts disease transmission by interfering with Plasmodium colonization and affecting mosquito physiology, including lifespan and immunity. Research on specific symbionts highlights opportunities to reduce malaria transmission by targeting microbial partners that enhance parasite survival. A deeper understanding of mosquito microbiomes could improve interventions by influencing vectorial competence, pathogen incubation period. Leveraging microbiota-mediated interactions may help combat the increasing resistance of plasmodium parasite, resistance to antimalarial drugs and support the development of novel biological control strategies.

Key Words:  Mosquito gut microbiota, Anopheles mosquitoes, Plasmodium falciparum

Vectorial competence, Microbiota–parasite interaction.