Malaria Vector Breeding Sites and Larval Ecology in Flood-Prone Communities of Anambra State, South East Nigeria

Flood events create transient and persistent water bodies that serve as productive breeding habitats for Anopheles malaria vectors, intensifying transmission in low-lying communities. This study characterises malaria vector breeding sites and investigates larval ecology in flood-prone communities of Anambra State, South East Nigeria. An entomological survey was conducted across three flood-affected communities in Ogbaru and Anambra West Local Government Areas following the 2023 flooding season. Larval habitats were mapped using GPS coordinates and classified by size, water clarity, vegetation cover, and permanence. Aquatic sampling was performed using standard dipping techniques, and collected larvae were reared to the adult stage for species identification. Water quality parameters including turbidity, pH, and temperature were measured for each habitat type. Recent entomological investigations from 2020 to 2024 in southeastern Nigeria document a surge in malaria transmission following annual flooding events, with Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto predominating in temporary rain-created pools. This study aims to identify habitat types with the highest larval productivity and determine the species composition driving post-flood transmission. Data will inform community-level larval source management strategies and post-flood malaria response plans for the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency. Keywords: malaria vectors, larval habitats, flood-prone communities, Anambra State, larval ecology.