Anopheles gambiae (sensu stricto) summary
Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto (s.s) is one of eight morphologically indistinguishable species within the Anopheles gambiae species complex¹, which is also known as the An. gambiae sensu lato (s.l) complex. Although morphologically identical, the species in the complex vary in distribution, ecology and vector competence². Anopheles gambiae (s.s) is a principle malaria vector within the complex, alongside An. arabiensis, due to their highly anthropophilic nature³.

While Anopheles gambiae (s.s) is the most efficient malaria vector within the complex⁴, one of the morphologically identical species within the complex, Anopheles quadriannulatus, is not classed as a malaria vector at all.  This is important in terms of implementing vector control programmes, as resources need to be targeted towards the main vectors.

Anopheles gambiae (s.s) has a large distribution across sub Saharan Africa, stretching from Guinea Bissau south to Angola, and across to Tanzania and Mozambique⁵. The phenotypically complex species has undergone the process of speciation into two molecular forms, S and M, previously collectively knowns as An. Gambiae (s.s) Giles. The two forms differ in their behavioural plasticity towards breeding site selection⁶. The S form, which has retained the name An. Gambiae (s.s) Giles, typically prefers to oviposit in temporary or puddles occurring after rainfall, whereas the M form, now known as An. Coluzzii, prefers flooded areas or more permanent sites such as rice fields^5,6.

While some exceptions exist, adult Anopheles gambiae (s.s) primarily bite indoors at night time, making them a highly efficient vector⁵.