The complexities of blood-feeding patterns in mosquitoes and sandflies and the burden of disease: A minireview

Abstract

Mosquitoes and sandflies exhibit a wide range of blood feeding patterns, targeting a wide range of vertebrate species, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, for proteins vital for egg development. This broad host range increases the opportunity for them to acquire pathogens of numerous debilitating-and-fatal diseases from various animal reservoirs, playing a significant role in disease crossover between animals and humans, also known as zoonotic transmission. This review focuses on the intricate blood-feeding habits of these dipteran vectors, their sensory systems and the complex dance between host and pathogen during disease transmission. We delve into the influence of blood sources on pathogen spread by examining the insect immune response and its intricate interplay with pathogens. The remarkable sense of smell guiding them towards food sources and hosts is explored, highlighting the interplay of multiple sensory cues in their navigation. Finally, we examine the challenges in mosquito control strategies and explore innovations in this field, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions to combat this global health threat. By understanding the biology and behaviour of these insects, we can develop more effective strategies to protect ourselves and mitigate the burden of vector-borne diseases.

Keywords: blood feeding; diptera; hematophagy; mosquitoes; sandfly; vector.

FIGURE 1

The blood feeding pattern of sandflies and mosquitoes and the potential zoonotic disease transmission routes of important blood‐borne pathogens including arboviruses, Leishmania and Plasmodium.

FIGURE 2

The interaction of blood‐borne pathogens with insect host's physical and physiological barriers.