Spatial analysis of the distribution of the Anopheles punctulatus group of malaria vectors in Australia

Funding or Partner Organisation: National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC Equipment Grant)
National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC Program Grants)

Start year: 2002

Summary: It has been known that the mosquitoes which transmit malaria have restricted distributions in the South West Pacific Region but the geographical range limits of individual species as well as the factors which define their ranges were not clearly understood. Our research has revealed that climate and other environmental variables influence range and abundance. Computer modelling studies show that different combinations of environmental factors are associated with presence or absence of the various species. Spatial analysis of species presence records and historical weather data has permitted accurate prediction of the geographical ranges of the different mosquito species in the region. This new knowledge on species range limits and the factors which influence vector distribution should enable control efforts to focus more efficiently against the mosquitoes which transmit malaria in this part of the world.

FOR Codes: Global Information Systems, Population and Ecological Genetics, Army, Disease distribution and transmission, Population, Ecological and Evolutionary Genetics, Disease Distribution and Transmission (incl. Surveillance and Response), Genetics not elsewhere classified, Inter-organisational, extra-organisational and global information systems

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.