Verrallina indica
| Verrallina indica | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Diptera |
| Family: | Culicidae |
| Genus: | Verrallina |
| Subgenus: | Neomacleaya |
| Species: | V. indica
|
| Binomial name | |
| Verrallina indica (Theobald, 1907)
| |
Verrallina indica is a species of mosquito in the genus Verrallina, first described by Frederick Vincent Theobald in 1907. This species is believed to occur in the Oriental region, particularly in India and parts of Southeast Asia, based on its name and the distribution patterns of related species.[1]
Description
As a member of the genus Verrallina, V. indica exhibits morphological traits typical of the group. These include broad decumbent scales on the vertex of the head, a scutum with dorsocentral setae, and curved, narrow scales on the scutellum.[2] The wings feature broad marginal scales on the alula, and the legs have dark-scaled tarsomeres I to III.[2] Specific details distinguishing V. indica from other species in the subgenus Neomacleaya are not widely documented, but it likely shares a similar appearance with its close relatives.
Distribution and habitat
Verrallina indica is thought to be distributed across the Oriental region, including India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia.[3] The genus Verrallina is known to range from the Oriental region northward to Russia and Japan, and southeast into the Papuan Subregion and northeastern Australia.[2]
This species typically inhabits temporary ground waters such as flood pools, puddles, road ruts, and animal hoof prints.[2] It may also occur in coastal brackish water pools, swamps, and natural containers like crabholes and plant axils.[2] Adults are commonly found in jungle environments and coastal mangroves, reflecting the ecological preferences of the genus.
Ecology and behavior
The life cycle of Verrallina indica follows the standard mosquito pattern, progressing through egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Larvae develop in aquatic environments, often in temporary water sources, and may be encased in gelatinous strings to protect against desiccation, a characteristic observed in some Verrallina species.[2] Adult females are likely diurnal biters, feeding on humans and animals in shaded jungle areas during the day.[2] This behavior may make them a nuisance to individuals working in jungles or plantations.
Medical significance
There is no definitive evidence that Verrallina indica is a primary vector for major diseases such as dengue or malaria.[4][5] However, other species within the genus Verrallina are known to transmit arboviruses, such as Barmah Forest virus and Ross River virus.[6] This suggests that V. indica could potentially serve as a vector for similar pathogens, though further research is required to confirm its role in disease transmission.
References
- ^ Dutta, P.; Khan, S. A.; Khan, A. M.; Sharma, C. K.; Mahanta, J. (2010). "An updated checklist of species of Aedes and Verrallina of northeastern India". Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association. 26 (2): 135–140. doi:10.2987/09-5913.1. PMID 20649122. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
- ^ a b c d e f g "Verrallina". Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
- ^ Dutta, P.; Khan, S. A.; Khan, A. M.; Sharma, C. K.; Mahanta, J. (2010). "An updated checklist of species of Aedes and Verrallina of northeastern India". Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association. 26 (2): 135–140. doi:10.2987/09-5913.1. PMID 20649122. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
- ^ "About Vector-Borne Diseases". Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
- ^ "Vector-borne diseases". World Health Organization. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
- ^ "Role of Verrallina funerea in transmission of Barmah Forest virus and Ross River virus". Wikidata. Retrieved 30 March 2025.