Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 July 2009
Anopheles (Myzomyia) sergentii (Theo.) has been shown to be the most important vector of malaria, especially of Plasmodium falciparum, in Israel at the present time.
The morphology of the adults, larvae and eggs is discussed, details being given of variations in the pigmentation of the fronto-clypeus in the larvae, a factor the possible genetical significance of which is felt to warrant further research.
Resistance of the aquatic stages to extreme variations in environmental conditions and their ability to survive and even metamorphose in minimal amounts of water have been observed. Breeding in nature has been found between 12°C. and 36°C. At 30°C. the time elapsing from egg-laying to hatching is one and a half days. Pupal development takes a further one and a half days and the total time from oviposition to the emergence of the adult is nine days, whereas in winter it may be as much as three months.