Organophosphate resistance in vector Populations of the complex of Culex Pipiens L. (Diptera: Culicidae)

Abstract

AbstractResistance to chlorpyrifos and other commonly used organophosphate larvicides was found in Culex quinquefasciatus Say from several urban areas in Tanzania. Lower levels of resistance were found in laboratory strains of the complex of C. pipiens L. collected in Sri Lanka, Egypt, Liberia and Brazil. Crosses of the Tanzanian strains to a more susceptible strain gave results consistent with causation of the resistance by a single gene or closely linked group of genes. Electrophoresis of one of the Tanzanian stocks indicated two esterase bands of high activity. The resistance in Tanzania did not prevent larval killing by freshly sprayed chlorpyrifos, but it is suggested that a spraying would probably no longer remain effective for three months as reported in earlier field studies.