Montana Mosquito Surveillance
Anopheles punctipennis
Species: Anopheles punctipennis
Importance:
Females feed on large mammals (horses, sheep, and man). Under experimental conditions, this species has been reported to transmit Plasmodium vivax. It has been reported as a vector of Dirofilaria. This species may have played a role in malaria transmission during the Gold Rush days in California.
Biology:
Larvae found mostly in clear, shaded pools. Often associated with filamentous algae as food and shelter from predators.
Identifying Characteristics:
Maxillary palpi on head as long as proboscis, wing with pale scaled spots.