Mosquito species composition, diversity and relative abundance in Science Village, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

Mosquitoes species diversity and abundance was studied at Science village, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria. To the best of our knowledge, no previous studies have been conducted on the species composition and abundance of mosquitoes in the study area. Given that mosquitoes can act as vectors for various diseases, including malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever, understanding the species composition of mosquitoes in the study area is crucial in assessing the potential public health implications associated with each species present. The objectives of this study were to identify different species of mosquitoes and determine their abundance and diversity in the study area. The study adopted a descriptive survey and was carried out from March to June 2023. The area was divided into two sampling sites for convenience; site 1 and Site 2. Four methods were used to collect mosquito samples namely an ovitrap (for egg collection), light trap, human landing catch and knock-down method (Spray sheet collection method). The mosquitoes were identified using morphological methods and experts. Mosquito diversity was determined using Shannon Weiner indices, dominance was determined by Simpson's dominance indices and species richness was determined using the Margalef species richness. A total of 440 mosquitoes comprising 5 species: Anopheles gambiae, Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus and Aedes luteocephalus, were identified during the study period. Out of the 5 species, C. quinquefasciatus was the highest (190/43.2 %) collected species followed by Ae. aegypti (111/25.2%), An. gambiae (s.l) (84/19.1 %), Ae. albopictus (54/12.3 %) and Ae., luteocephalus (1/0.2 %). Mosquito diversity was higher in site 1 (1.2779) than in site 2 (1.2313). The high rate of C. quinquefasciatus mosquito species is of utmost concern in this study because it is the vector of many pathogens to man and some domestic animals. It is, therefore, recommended that control measures aimed at eliminating the breeding sites and reducing their contact with the students and staff should be embraced and practised to minimize disease transmission among the students.