Why is the effect of malaria parasites on mosquito survival still unresolved?

Ferguson, H.M. and Read, A.F. (2002) Why is the effect of malaria parasites on mosquito survival still unresolved? Trends in Parasitology, 18(6), pp. 256-261. (doi: 10.1016/S1471-4922(02)02281-X)

Abstract

Despite almost a century of effort, the question of whether malaria parasites kill their mosquito vectors remains open. Some direct comparisons of the longevity of infected and uninfected mosquitoes have found malaria-induced mortality, whereas others have not. Here, we use meta-analysis to show that, overall, malaria parasites do reduce mosquito survival. However, mortality effects are more likely to be detected in unnatural vector–parasite combinations and in studies of longer duration. Until these factors are systematically investigated, no firm generalities are possible.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Ferguson, Professor Heather
• Authors: Ferguson, H.M., and Read, A.F.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
• Journal Name: Trends in Parasitology
• ISSN: 1471-4922