Entomological Diversity and Biting Behaviour of Adult Mosquitoes in Three University Halls of Residence in Brazzaville, Congo

Introduction: Culicid mosquitoes, such as Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex, are capable of transmitting vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, and Japanese encephalitis. When their density is high, culicid mosquitoes are also a source of nuisance, discomfort, itching, and skin irritation. To control these Culicidae, it is important to understand their bioecology and the composition of the Culicidae fauna. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the diversity of the Culicidae fauna and its aggressiveness in three dormitories at Marien Ngouabi University. Methodology: Culicids were collected using two methods: morning collection and collection of species aggressive toward humans. Results and Discussion: During this study, 2621 culicids were collected. These belonged to five species: 2519 Culex quinquefasciatus; 80 Anopheles gambiae s.l.; 16 Aedes albopictus; 4 Aedes aegypti; 2 Mansonia uniformis. The Culicidae fauna consisted primarily of Culex quinquefasciatus (96.11%). In terms of nuisance, the highest level was recorded at the ENS I residence, with 400 p/h/n (bites/person/night) for Cx. quinquefasciatus outside the bedroom. The presence of mosquitoes in university housing is a major concern due to the nuisance caused by mosquito bites and the risk of vector-borne disease transmission. Several factors could contribute to the presence of Culicidae in these housing units: proximity to a watercourse, weather conditions, and outdoor maintenance, although these variables were not directly measured in this study. Conclusion: Management of the nuisance caused by Culicidae in university housing can be achieved through environmental management, vector control, and student awareness campaigns.