Evaluation of Generational Implications of Metabolic Resistance Development in Malaria Mosquitoes against Permethrin Insecticides

Abstract

Enzymes mediated resistance development and their activities are well documented in Anopheles gambiae vectors. However, biological consequences of such resistance development in malaria vectors are obscure. The present study aims to determine the implications of such response in An. gambiae (Kisumu) population following exposure to a concentration of Permethrin selection pressure across multiple generations. Adult Kisumu mosquitoes exposed to 0.2 µg/ CDC bottle over generations were compared with unexposed control populations by way of resistance status, cost of fitness, and correlating metabolic enzymes. Data obtained were analysed using SPSS. Analysis of Variance was employed to determine statistical differences at 95%. Fecundity rates of the mosquito population dropped progressively over generations. With increase in activity of metabolic enzymes, resistance status of the mosquito population progressed significantly (P< 0.05) over generations with 5.0 µg (18.00±0.00; 72%) at f₄ generation. Mosquito resistance development is therefore a disadvantage to malaria vectors as it reduces ovipository capability, and increases longevity of immature stages (life cycle) with filial generations.