Which mosquito transmits the malaria parasite?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Female Anopheles
- Step 1: The transmission of Plasmodium sporozoites to humans requires a vector capable of taking blood meals and supporting the sexual phase of the parasite life cycle.
- Step 2: Only female Anopheles mosquitoes require vertebrate blood proteins for egg development and serve as the definitive vector for malaria.
Answer
Female Anopheles.
Why not the others: 'Male Anopheles' feeds exclusively on floral nectar and plant sap and does not bite; 'Female Aedes' transmits arboviruses like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika; 'Culex' transmits West Nile virus and lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis).
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