Could a previously unidentified cryptic Anopheles mosquito be transmitting malaria in East Africa?
There are at least nine known members within the Anopheles gambiae complex. Now, collaborative vector genomics research efforts are facilitating breakthroughs in identifying genetically distinct mosquito populations, providing crucial information to guide malaria vector control efforts.
By analysing open-access data available through the Malaria Vector Genome Observatory, Sophia and colleagues identified a cryptic taxon within the Anopheles gambiae complex, which has tentatively been named the ‘Pwani molecular form’. This discovery is detailed in a recent pre-print: https://www.authorea.com/doi/full/10.22541/au.173090555.57059009/v1
Found along the coast of East Africa, The Pwani molecular form lacks insecticide resistance and possesses other unique genetic traits that distinguish it from other known species. This makes it particularly relevant for researchers and vector control groups to further understand the biology and genetic profile of this taxon.
In this insightful journal club, Sophia explored the genomic analyses behind the identification of the Pwani molecular form.