Targeted trapping of malaria vectors: Anopheles darlingi in the Peruvian Amazon

Anopheles darlingi (Culicidae: Diptera) is the primary malaria vector in the Amazon basin.  It is an invasive species that is rapidly invading large portions of previously malaria-free rainforest.  An. darlingi is highly anthropophilic and capable of transmitting both falciparum and vivax malaria in and around the jungle-urban ecotone of Iquitos, Peru.  Local vector control authorities need enhanced malaria vector surveillance methods, including information on the best methods of detecting An. darlingi in remote locations. To determine the best trap or trap/attractant mix to optimally detect this malaria vector, we tested multiple trap types in the jungle ecotone surrounding a military complex near Iquitos, Peru.  Six trap types were deployed in a transect for twelve nights in two locations.  Overall numbers caught and diversity of species caught depended on trap type and location.  Traps set 30 m into the forest canopy caught more female mosquitoes and more species of mosquitoes than traps set near military barracks.  UV LED traps caught the greatest number of female mosquitoes and also the greatest diversity of female mosquitoes in the inner jungle location.  Incandescent light traps were less effective but caught more mosquitoes than traps baited with CO₂ derived from a yeast/sugar mix.  Trap effectiveness is discussed in the context of hierarchical modelling and detection probability, and its relation to enhancement of vector control interventions.