A global map of dominant malaria vectors

Abstract

Background: Global maps, in particular those based on vector distributions, have long been used to help visualise the global extent of malaria. Few, however, have been created with the support of a comprehensive and extensive evidence-based approach.

Methods: Here we describe the generation of a global map of the dominant vector species (DVS) of malaria that makes use of predicted distribution maps for individual species or species complexes.

Results: Our global map highlights the spatial variability in the complexity of the vector situation. In Africa, An. gambiae, An. arabiensis and An. funestus are co-dominant across much of the continent, whereas in the Asian-Pacific region there is a highly complex situation with multi-species coexistence and variable species dominance.

Conclusions: The competence of the mapping methodology to accurately portray DVS distributions is discussed. The comprehensive and contemporary database of species-specific spatial occurrence (currently available on request) will be made directly available via the Malaria Atlas Project (MAP) website from early 2012.

Figures

Figure 1

A global map of dominant malaria vector species.

Figure 2

A regional map showing the distribution of nine DVS across the Americas.

Figure 3

A regional map showing the distribution of the three most dominant malaria vectors in Africa.

Figure 4

A regional map showing the distribution of 16 dominant malaria vectors in the Asian-Pacific region.

Figure 5

A map showing a closer view of the complexity and diversity of the distribution of eight DVS in Central America and in the northern regions of South America.

Figure 6

A map showing a closer view of the complexity and diversity of the DVS in Southeast Asia and on the Pacific islands.

Figure 7

A map showing the distribution of 'secondary' DVS across Africa.