Effects of Artificial Flooding for Hydroelectric Development on the Population of Mansonia humeralis (Diptera: Culicidae) in the Parana River, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Author(s)

de Paula, Marcia Bicudo ; Gomes, Almerio de Castro ; Natal, Delsio ; de Castro Duarte, Ana Maria Ribeiro ; Mucci, Luis Filipe

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: JOURNAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE; v. 2012, p. 6-pg., 2012-01-01.

Abstract

The closure of two phases of the dam at the Porto Primavera Hydroelectric Plant on the Parana River flooded a flawed system located in the Municipality of Presidente Epitacio, Sao Paulo state, favoring the proliferation of aquatic weeds. This study aimed to observe the population of Mansonia humeralis in the area, monitoring the richness, diversity, and dominance of this species both before and during different phases of reservoir flooding as well as evaluate its possible consequences concerning human and animal contact. Adult mosquitoes were collected monthly in the following periods: at the original level, after the first flood, and after the maximum level had been reached between 1997 and 2002. Collection methods used were an aspirator, a Shannon trap, and the Human Attractive Technique. A total of 30,723 mosquitoes were collected, Ma. humeralis accounting for 3.1% in the preflood phase, 59.6% in the intermediate, and 53.8% at maximum level. This species is relevant to public health, since the prospect of continued contact between Ma. humeralis and the human population enhances the dam's importance in the production of nuisance mosquitoes, possibly facilitating the transmission of arboviruses. Local authorities should continue to monitor culicid activity through sustainable entomological surveillance. (AU)