Aedes mcintoshi is a species complex of zoophilic mosquito belonging to the genus Aedes.

Distribution

This mosquito species prefers shallow wetland regions known as dambo habitats like those found in Kenya. Its presence has also been recorded in India.

Description

Females deposit their eggs in areas that are likely to flood, with the eggs being able to sustain hatching until they have been submerged for a significant period of time.

Medical importance

Aedes mcintoshi has been described as a primary vector for Rift Valley fever virus. It can transmit this virus to other hosts during the act of blood-feeding, as well as to its own progeny through transovarial transmission. It is also a vector of pathogens such as Plasmodium spp., Bunyamwera virus, Pongola virus, and others.