On the Changes which Occur in Certain Characters of Anopheles Larvae in the Course of their Growth

Abstract

It is generally admitted that the ability to determine the species ofAnophelesby an examination of their larvae would place a valuable weapon in the hands of the practical sanitarian in tropical countries. In the investigation of an area for the determination of theAnophelespresent, it frequently happens that, on account of their habit of concealment by day, adult mosquitos are difficult to find, whereas their breeding places may be located readily. If the larvae are transported to a distance they commonly do not develop further, and so, failing the specific identification of the larvae themselves, valuable information is lost. It is therefore very desirable to know whether, and to what extent, any of the characteristics of such larvae may safely be employed in determining their species.