Insecticide susceptibility of Aedes albopictus from Sri Lanka: First report of the F1534C mutation in the country

Abstract

Aedes albopictus, a vector of dengue, have increased concerns with its presence due to its rapid spread and the aggressive biting behavior. Resistance to commonly used insecticides is a major concern in vector mosquito control measures. The present study was carried out on local populations of Ae. albopictus in Western province, Sri Lanka. Adult and larval susceptibility tests were carried out for F0 and F1 populations of Ae. albopictus respectively against Deltamethrin, Permethrin and Temephos according to World Health Organization guidelines. The average mortality percentages recorded for permethrin and deltamethrin were 85.2% and 81.6% respectively. The mutant allele percentage varied 4%-5%. Larval bioassays showed 58.2% average mortality percentage. The study for the first time reveals the presence of F1534C mutation in pyrethroid resistant Ae. albopictus mosquitoes in Sri Lanka. The need of identifying the existing resistance mechanisms in local populations is important to carry out necessary implementations and reducing errors in vector control measures.