This page represents the following TreeOfLife-200M taxonomic path.[1]
Anopheles quadriannulatus is a mosquito species. Based on observations of preserved specimens, the adult exhibits the characteristic slender body form of the genus Anopheles, with long, thin legs and narrow wings. The body displays a mottled or patterned appearance typical of many anopheline mosquitoes, with coloration ranging from light to dark brown.[1]
Anopheles quadriannulatus is recognized as a non-vector mosquito species, a notable distinction given its close phylogenetic relationship to the major malaria vector Anopheles gambiae.[2]
The species demonstrates significant resistance to infection by both the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum and the rodent malaria parasite Plasmodium berghei. This resistance is governed by heritable, dominant quantitative traits. The mosquito's innate immune system effectively clears parasites, particularly during the midgut invasion stage, through mechanisms including parasite lysis in midgut cells and melanization. Key components of this immune response include the leucine-rich repeat proteins LRIM1 and LRIM2, as well as the thioester-containing protein TEP1. Experimental silencing of the genes encoding these proteins has been shown to abolish P. berghei melanization and significantly increase oocyst numbers, rendering the mosquito a permissive host.[2]