Understanding Mosquito Biodiversity in India: Key Genera, Ecology, and Disease Transmission – A Review

Abstract

Mosquitoes are among the most medically important insects in India, serving as vectors for a wide range of diseases, including malaria, dengue, chikungunya, filariasis, and Japanese encephalitis. The Indian subcontinent, with its diverse ecosystems ranging from Himalayan foothills to coastal plains supports a rich diversity of mosquito fauna. This review provides a comprehensive account of mosquito diversity across India, focusing on the major genera: Anopheles, Aedes, Culex, Mansonia, and Armigeres. Each genus exhibits unique ecological adaptations, breeding habitats, biting behavior, and vectorial capacities. Anopheles species are predominantly rural and forest-dwelling, while Aedes thrive in urban settings and artificial containers. Culex and Mansonia are common in polluted or semi-aquatic environments, and Armigeres are emerging as secondary vectors in some regions. The review also highlights the ecological factors influencing mosquito distribution, including climate change, deforestation, urbanization, and water management practices. Special attention is given to recent shifts in species ranges and the emergence of new vector hotspots. Despite extensive research, several regions and species remain under-studied, particularly in the northeastern and central parts of India. There is a pressing need for integrative taxonomic approaches, molecular surveillance, and ecological modeling to fully understand mosquito biodiversity and vector potential. By synthesizing current knowledge, this article aims to aid entomologists, public health officials, and policy makers in designing effective, location-specific vector surveillance and control programs. Understanding mosquito diversity is not only essential for disease prevention but also for maintaining ecological balance in India's varied landscapes.