Sibling-species-complex
Guides
Anopheles quadrimaculatus
common malaria mosquito
Anopheles quadrimaculatus is a mosquito species historically recognized as the most important malaria vector in the eastern United States. It belongs to a sibling species complex that includes at least four genetically distinct forms. The species breeds in freshwater habitats, particularly intermittently flooded swamps and rice fields. While it remains capable of transmitting Plasmodium parasites, local malaria transmission in its range has been eliminated through vector control and public health measures.