Which mosquito breeds in artificial collections of fresh water?

Appeared in: UPPSC-2021

Explanation

Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti, are known for breeding in artificial containers holding clean water.
These mosquitoes have adapted to human environments, using items like water coolers, flower pots, discarded tires, and water storage tanks as breeding grounds.
This behavior makes them the primary vectors for urban and semi-urban outbreaks of diseases like Dengue and Chikungunya.
They are often called 'tiger mosquitoes' due to the characteristic white stripes on their black body and legs.

Option A: Anopheles mosquitoes do not typically breed in artificial water collections.
Option B: Culex mosquitoes prefer polluted or dirty water, not fresh water in artificial containers.
Option D: Mansonia mosquitoes have a very specific breeding requirement that involves aquatic plants.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Mosquito breeding habitats and vector identification as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Knowledge of mosquito breeding sites is fundamental to 'source reduction,' the most effective strategy for preventing vector-borne diseases.
Nurses play a vital role in community health by educating families to identify and eliminate potential breeding spots around their homes, such as uncovered water containers, old tires, and plant saucers.
This knowledge helps in targeted public health campaigns. For example, during a Dengue outbreak, efforts are focused on indoor and outdoor artificial containers (Aedes), whereas for Malaria prevention, efforts target natural water bodies (Anopheles).

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrases in the question: 'breeds in' and 'artificial collections of fresh water'.
This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of medical entomology.
Systematically review the options and recall the specific breeding habitat for each mosquito genus.
Associate 'Aedes' with man-made containers and clean water, a common feature of urban environments.
Eliminate the other options by contrasting their habitats: Anopheles (natural, clean water), Culex (stagnant, polluted water), and Mansonia (water with specific aquatic plants).
Confirm your choice by remembering that Aedes is the vector for diseases like Dengue, which are prevalent in areas with dense human populations and associated water storage practices.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart B (pp 233-449 of 464) p. 87-89

Practise the full UPPSC-2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.