Plasmodium species as well as Wuchereria bancrofti can be carried by mosquitoes in the genus __________.


a. Aedes
b. Anopheles
c. Culex
d. Ctenocephalides

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the mosquito genus responsible for transmitting Plasmodium species, which are the causative agents of malaria. The primary vector for Plasmodium is the Anopheles mosquito.
2. Recognize that Wuchereria bancrofti, a parasitic worm causing lymphatic filariasis, is also transmitted by mosquitoes, but the specific genus can vary depending on the region; however, Anopheles mosquitoes are known vectors in many areas.
3. Review the options given: Aedes, Anopheles, Culex, and Ctenocephalides. Note that Ctenocephalides is not a mosquito genus but a flea genus, so it can be excluded.
4. Recall that Aedes mosquitoes are primarily vectors for viruses like dengue and Zika, and Culex mosquitoes transmit other diseases such as West Nile virus, but not Plasmodium or Wuchereria bancrofti primarily.
5. Conclude that the genus common to both Plasmodium species and Wuchereria bancrofti transmission is Anopheles, making it the correct choice.

Key Concepts

Plasmodium Species and Malaria Transmission

Plasmodium species are protozoan parasites responsible for malaria. They are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, which serve as the primary vectors. Understanding the life cycle of Plasmodium and its mosquito vector is essential for grasping malaria epidemiology.

Wuchereria bancrofti and Lymphatic Filariasis

Wuchereria bancrofti is a parasitic worm causing lymphatic filariasis, transmitted by mosquitoes. The parasite’s larvae develop inside mosquito vectors before infecting humans. Identifying the mosquito genus involved is crucial for understanding disease spread and control.

Mosquito Genera and Vector Specificity

Different mosquito genera transmit distinct pathogens: Anopheles mosquitoes transmit malaria and lymphatic filariasis (Wuchereria bancrofti), Aedes mosquitoes spread dengue and Zika, while Culex mosquitoes transmit other diseases like West Nile virus. Recognizing vector specificity helps in disease prevention strategies.