Identification of Iranian vectors of malaria by analysis of cuticular hydrocarbons

Abstract Twenty‐eight Anopheles species has been so‐far identified in Iran, while only 8 species was proved as malaria vector. In this study, we principally examined the cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) potency in identification of Iranian vectors of malaria and then differentiation of vector and non‐vector species of Anopheles. Seven species of malaria vectors and the non‐vector species, Anopheles claviger were collected throughout Iran. Female extracts were made out of every five conspecific specimens by surface immersion in pure n‐hexane. Each sample was injected into a FID‐GC instrument along with the known concentrations of standards. CHC profiles of the eight Anopheles species indicated no qualitative difference. The average mass of each eluted CHC were compared using Repeated ANOVA and Mann‐Whitney tests. Results confirmed a significant difference in mass of each single CHC at a specific retention time (RT). Statistical comparison of CHC mass in An. sacharovi, An. stephensi, An. culicifacies and An. flu...