Breeding sites, migration paths and phylogenetic relationships of mosquitoes in seven cities in northern and southern China

Mosquito-borne diseases have wreaked havoc on human health, with consequences dramatically increasing in recent years. The incidence of mosquito-borne diseases is closely linked to the locations that are chosen for urban development. The aim of this study was to provide characteristics of mosquito breeding sites in northern and southern China and to document the most important arbovirus vectors found in the study area, the evidence generated here is critical for early prevention and control inter ventions. This research involved a random selection of various sites across four provinces, spanning both the northern and southern regions of China. The dwellings and accessible water storage containers in these sites were investigated to detect the presence of immature mosquitoes. Samples were then collected, mosquitoes were nurtured to adulthood, and the species that were present were identified. A total of 1 249 samples were collected during this survey of the mosquito breeding sites. A total of 80 samples were processed using the Chelex method to extract mosquito DNA from all the samples. The ITS2 gene fragment was then amplified by PCR and sequenced. A subsequent BLAST comparison allowed the identification of the mosquito species, and MEGA11 software was used for phylogenetic analysis. The results showed that there were four species of mosquitoes, including Aedes albopictus, Culex quinquefasciatus, Lutzia fuscanus and Armigeres subalbatus. The primary mosquito breeding grounds in the four provinces of China consisted of storm drains, discarded containers, garbage bins, and areas with standing water. Still-water environments, such as rice fields were the primary breeding locations in the southern cities. In contrast, in the northern regions, most breeding occurred at construction sites, and in similar water-prone areas. The most prevalent mosquitoes in the four provinces of China were of the genus Aedes, with a significant number originating from Fujian Province, China. This information sheds light on the migration patterns of mosquitoes and significantly enhances community-based protection measures and mobilization efforts.