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Dog Heartworm		 CLASSIFICATION:
Wiedemann, C. R. G. 1828. Aussereuropaische zweiflugelige insekten. Vol. 1, pp12. Hamm.
FAMILY: Culicidae
SUBFAMILY: Anophelinae
GENUS: Anopheles
SUBGENUS: Anopheles
IDENTIFYING CHARACTERS:
Maxillary palpus of female almost as long as either the antenna or proboscis
Postspiracular setae absent
Prespiracular setae present
Scales on the dorsal surface of the radial sector and media narrow
BIONOMICS:
The larvae are found in semipermanent and permanent pools, pond, lakes and swamps. Acidic water with emergent and floating vegetation is preferred. Females are outdoor night biters but will bite during the cloudy day and in the shade. Both sexes are attracted to lights.
MEDICAL IMPORTANCE:
This species has been found to be naturally infected with malaria. Infection rates of 3.28% have been observed. This species may serve as an important malaria vector.
DISTRIBUTION: