Distribution and entomological parameters of Anopheles (Anopheles) calderoni (Diptera: Culicidae) from Colombia

Anopheles calderoni considered a potential malaria vector, was only reported in Colombia during the last decade. Due to its recent report and the confusion with closely related species, little is known about the actual distribution and epidemiological importance of this species. In this work, the distribution and entomological parameters of A. calderoni were determined in several localities in Colombia. Anopheles specimens were collected in 10 departments from various regions in Colombia between 2009 and 2015. We characterized the ITS2 region for the collected specimens and performed a bioinformatic analysis to predict its taxonomic identification using a molecular test. We also determined the natural infection by Plasmodium and calculated entomological parameters. A. calderoni was registered in 4 departments in west Colombia. The highest biting rate (14.7 bites per night) was detected in Tumaco, SW Colombia, where a specimen was found to be infected by Plasmodium falciparum. The bionformatic analysis generated an ITS2 pattern that allows differentiation of this species. The presence of A. calderoni in regions with ecological diverse characteristics suggests that this species tolerates varied environments, and its infection with Plasmodium parasites indicates its role as a vector of local importance.