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Home / Publications / Hybridization and population structure of the Culex pipiens complex in the islands of Macaronesia.

Hybridization and population structure of the Culex pipiens complex in the islands of Macaronesia.

  • Authors: Almeida AP, Alves J, Donnelly MJ, Gomes B, Santa-Ana M, Silva TL, Sousa CA, Vieira I
  • Journal: Ecology and Evolution
  • Link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=Hybridization+and+population+structure+of+the+Culex+pipiens+complex+in+the+islands+of+Macaronesia.

The Culex pipiens complex includes two widespread mosquito vector species, Cx. pipiens and Cx. quinquefasciatus. The distribution of these species varies in latitude, with the former being present in temperate regions and the latter in tropical and subtropical regions. However, their distribution range overlaps in certain areas and interspecific hybridization has been documented. Genetic introgression between these species may have epidemiological repercussions for West Nile virus (WNV) transmission. Bayesian clustering analysis based on multilocus genotypes of 12 microsatellites was used to determine levels of hybridization between these two species in Macaronesian islands, the only contact zone described in West Africa. The distribution of the two species reflects both the islands’ biogeography and historical aspects of human colonization. Madeira Island displayed a homogenous population of Cx. pipiens, whereas Cape Verde showed a more intriguing scenario with extensive hybridization. In the islands of Brava and Santiago, only Cx. quinquefasciatus was found, while in Fogo and Maio high hybrid rates (∼40%) between the two species were detected. Within the admixed populations, second-generation hybrids (∼50%) were identified suggesting a lack of isolation mechanisms. The observed levels of hybridization may locally potentiate the transmission to humans of zoonotic arboviruses such as WNV.

KEYWORDS: Culex pipiens; Culex quinquefasciatus; Macaronesian islands; West Nile virus; hybridization.

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About GHTM

GHTM is a R&D Unit that brings together researchers with a track record in Tropical Medicine and International & Global Health. It aims at strengthening Portugal's role as a leading partner in the development and implementation of a global health research agenda. Our evidence-based interventions contribute to the promotion of equity in health and to improve the health of populations.

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