Diversity, abundance and distribution of mosquitoes (Diptera, Culicidae) in Northeast Algeria

Mosquitoes (Culicidae) are hematophagous insects that play a major role as vectors of diverse pathogens affecting human health. Understanding their distribution and diversity is essential for assessing pathogen risks and developing control strategies. This study investigated the Culicid fauna in the semi-humid region of northeastern Algeria (Annaba-El Tarf) over a period from October 2019 to July 2022. An entomological survey was conducted in natural and artificial larval habitats across rural and urban areas to account for factors influencing mosquito breeding capacity and distribution. Immature mosquitoes were collected and identified to assess species richness and abundance. A total of 5587 immature mosquitoes were collected from 111 positive larval habitats, representing four genera and nine species: Culex pipiens, Cx. theileri, Cx. hortensis, Culiseta longiareolata, Cs. annulata, Aedes caspius, Ae. geniculatus, Ae. albopictus, and Anopheles labranchiae. The genus Culex was the most prevalent, with Culex pipiens accounting for 63.25% of the total, followed by Culiseta longiareolata (23.41%). Species richness was lower in urban areas compared to rural areas, and natural larval habitats harboured more species than artificial ones. This study provides essential data on the distribution, abundance, and diversity of mosquito species in northeastern Algeria, contributing to understanding mosquito population dynamics and enabling better vector control and monitoring strategies, particularly in light of evolving human activities and climate change.