New research indicates that some mosquito species have become increasingly reliant on human blood, a trend potentially linked to human activity and biodiversity reduction.
A study conducted in Brazil's Atlantic Forest found that as biodiversity decreases, mosquitoes are more likely to feed on humans. This is attributed to the displacement of other animal hosts by human activity, leading mosquitoes to seek alternative blood sources.
This shift in feeding preference carries significant health implications, as mosquitoes are primary vectors for various diseases.
Researchers from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and the Oswaldo Cruz Institute collected 52 mosquito species using light traps in two nature reserves. From over 1,700 captured individuals, 24 blood-engorged females contained identifiable DNA. Of these, 18 samples contained human DNA, followed by bird DNA in six samples, and amphibian, rodent, and canid blood each appearing once.
Jeronimo Alencar, a biologist at the Oswaldo Cruz Institute, stated that the captured mosquito species showed a clear preference for human blood. Sergio Machado, a microbiologist at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, suggested that increased deforestation leads to more human presence, forcing mosquitoes to feed on humans out of convenience due to fewer natural host options.
The research team noted that more detailed analysis is required, including improved insect capture methods. A better understanding of mosquito feeding habits is expected to enhance disease prevention strategies.
The study was published in the journal Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution.