Trophic Interactions of Anopheles Gambiae Mosquito Larvae in Aquatic Ecosystem: A Metagenomics Approach

Abstract Background Understanding the trophic interactions of Anopheles gambiae mosquito larvae in aquatic environments is essential for malaria prevention efforts such as in gene drive application. In this study, metagenomics method was employed to explore the feeding behavior and ecological associations of An. gambiae larvae within their aquatic ecosystems. Methods Anopheles gambiae larvae and their co-existing fauna species were collected from December 2022 to June 2023. DNA from dissected midguts of the co-existing fauna was sequenced using Illumina NovaSeq for diet analysis through a shotgun sequencing approach. Results The study revealed a complex network of trophic interactions in the freshwater habitat, with significant resource sharing between A. gambiae larvae and other filter-feeding species, including various Diptera and non-Dipteran feeders. Contrary to assumptions, predator species did not exhibit exclusive predation on Anopheles larvae, preferring other fauna instead. Conclusion This study has demonstrated complex trophic interactions among Anopheles gambiae larvae and other organisms in freshwater ecosystems. It has offered essential insights for optimizing vector control strategies, such as in gene drive applications. Additionally, the study has provided valuable information on the aquatic fauna of the study area, which can serve as a baseline for developing a macroinvertebrate identification database for freshwater systems in Ghana. A complementary study that further explores the ecological role of An. gambiae larvae in these freshwater habitats is presented in a subsequent publication.