Adeoye, E., Physicochemical Parameters and Selected Heavy Metals Abundance in Relation to Mosquito Breeding Habitat in Four Local Government Areas of Kaduna State

Abstract

This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics and heavy metals that pollute habitats of mosquito breeding sites and their influence on mosquito abundance, distribution, and environmental suitability
across 12 communities during the wet (June–October 2023) and dry (November 2023–March 2024) seasons. Sampling occurred between 7:00 am and 9:30 am, during which water parameters such as temperature, pH, water hardness, and dissolved oxygen (DO) were measured. Mosquito larvae were collected, identified, and analyzed alongside water quality indicators, including heavy metal concentrations. Temperature varied significantly by season, with lower values recorded in the dry months.
pH levels (ranging from 2.12 to 2.58) showed no notable seasonal variation. Water hardness peaked in Kakuri (203.15 ppm) during the wet season and in Riga-Chikun (168.23 ppm) during the dry season. While DO and turbidity remained relatively consistent across sites during the wet season, significant differences were observed during the dry period. A total of 2,765 larvae from eight mosquito species were identified, with Culex quinquefasciatus (42.89%) and Aedes aegypti (22.93%) being the most prevalent, especially in concrete gutters and artificial containers like old tires. Larval abundance was significantly correlated with physicochemical conditions (P < 0.01), but not with heavy metal concentrations (P > 0.05). The findings highlight the importance of prioritizing vector control during the wet season, when mosquito populations are highest. Efforts should focus on managing indoor breeding sites. Further research is recommended to explore the adaptability of Culex and Aedes species to diverse environmental conditions for more targeted
interventions