Seasonal survival of AEDES africanus (Diptera: Culicidae) in Nigeria

The geographical distribution and abundance of A. africanus , a known vector of yellow fever, and its association with human settlements were assessed in 10 Nigerian localities by means of ovitraps and adult collections during the dry season as well as the rainy months. The numbers of Ae. africanus caught during crepuscular hours on human bait decreased toward the north, ranging from over 95% in lowland rain forests to 5% in northern guinea savanna forest. Whereas the northern limit of this species during the rainy season extends to the northern guinea savanna zone, in the dry season the species is limited to the area south of the Benue River, where it continues to breed throughout the year in forest relicts south of 7 degree N latitude.