Species Composition, Abundance, Distribution and Diversity of Culicidae in Essien Udim LGA, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

Mosquitoes are major vectors of pathogens responsible for diseases such as filariasis, malaria, and arboviral infections in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. Accurate species identification, including cryptic forms, is essential for effective vector surveillance and control. This study established baseline entomological data on mosquito populations in Essien Udim Local Government Area (L.G.A.), Akwa Ibom State. Biweekly sampling was conducted for 12 months using CDC light traps indoors and outdoors in four households each from Ukana Uwa West and Adiasim Ikot Essiendot. A total of 5,392 adult mosquitoes were collected, with Ukana Uwa West accounting for 3,762 (69.77%) and Adiasim Ikot Essiendot 1,630 (30.23%). Seven species were identified, dominated by Culex pipiens (4,414; 81.86%), while Mansonia africana was least abundant (24; 0.45%). Other species included An. bancrofti, An. gambiae, An. atratipes, Ae. aegypti, and M. uniformis. July recorded the highest mosquito density (1,271; 23.57%), whereas January had the lowest (59; 1.09%). Wet season collections (4,451; 82.55%) exceeded those of the dry season (941; 17.45%). Indoor collections were higher (3,071; 56.95%) than outdoor (2,321; 43.05%), though the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.193; P > 0.05). Species richness was greater indoors (99 taxa) compared to outdoors (44 taxa), with Ukana Uwa West exhibiting higher diversity than Adiasim Ikot Essiendot. These findings reveal the high abundance of disease-vector mosquitoes in Essien Udim LGA, with Culex pipiens predominating, and underscore the urgent need for enhanced vector control interventions in the area.