Ecological Survey of Mosquito Species Diversity and Seasonal Variability in District Kohat: Implications for Vector Control

Abstract

Mosquitoes are major disease vectors contributing substantially to global mortality, with over 3,500 species belonging to the family Culicidae. This study aimed to access the species diversity and seasonal variation of mosquitoes across four rural localities in District Kohat to support future surveillance and vector control strategies. A year-long survey was conducted using a combination of catching techniques, including nets, aspirators, light traps and spray catches. Collected specimens were preserved in 80% ethyl alcohol and taxonomically identified under a stereomicroscope using key standards. Statistical analysis was performed to correlate mosquito abundance with local climate variables, including temperature, rainfall, and relative humidity. The survey identified seven mosquito species belonging to three genera: Culex (76%), Anopheles (22%), and Aedes (2%). The dominant species were Culex quinquefasciatus (40%), Culex mimeticus (22%) and Culex theileri (14%). Among Anopheles, the species recorded were Anopheles stephensi (11%), Anopheles culicifacies (8%), Anopheles annularis (3%), while Aedes aegypti (2%) was the sole representative of its genus. Jarma village exhibited the highest diversity index (1.74) and shared similar species evenness (0.8) with Lachi area. Seasonally, the highest mosquito density (5,260) occurred in June, while the lowest (10) was recorded in January. Temperature acted as the primary regulator of mosquito abundance in study area, showing a strong positive correlation while rainfall and humidity remained weak drivers. Consequently, it was recommended that resource allocation prioritize climate-informed interventions and larval source reduction from early spring through autumn. Future research should integrate GIS-based climatic monitoring and molecular screening to map spatial risk zones and enhance precision of localized vector control to prevent the mosquito-borne diseases.