SURVEY OF MEDICALLY IMPPORTANT INSECTS IN SOKOTOMETROPOLIS

Abstract

Diversity and distribution of medically important insect species within SokotoMetropolis. This was investigated in a semi-arid region of the Sudan savannacharacterized by seasonal rainfall and human-driven environmental modifications thatfavor vector proliferation. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, withsampling sites purposively selected based on ecological characteristics such assanitation level, proximity to water bodies, and vegetation cover. Multiple vectorsurveillance techniques including CDC light traps, light traps with spray sheets, stickyinterceptors, baited traps, sweep nets, and sticky papers were deployed to capture awide range of insects across selected urban and peri-urban locations. Specimens wereidentified morphologically using established taxonomic keys, and data were analyzedusing descriptive statistics and biodiversity indices. Across all methods, mosquitoesconstituted the dominant medically important vectors. From CDC light traps alone, 60mosquitoes belonging to Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex genera were recorded, withCulex species accounting for 70% of the total catch. Additional trapping methodsrevealed similar trends, with Culex consistently dominant, while Anophelesappearedin smaller numbers and Aedes was largely absent from nocturnal traps. Non-mosquitovectors collected included houseflies (Musca domestica, 71.4%) and lice (Pediculusspp., 28.6%), indicating the persistence of mechanical vectors associated with poorsanitation. Overall, the results highlight significant vector presence across SokotoMetropolis, with Culex species being the most widespread, suggesting environmentalconditions that favor their breeding. The presence of Anopheles and filth fliesunderscores ongoing risks for malaria and hygiene-related diseases. Strengthenedvector surveillance, improved environmental sanitation, and targeted controlinterventions are recommended to mitigate vector-borne disease transmission in thearea.