Anopheles funestus
Anopheles funestus is the second most important malaria vector in Sub-Saharan Africa, after An. gambiae. Unlike the puddle-breeding gambiae, funestus prefers semi-permanent water bodies with vegetation — marshes, swamp edges, and irrigation channels. This gives it a longer seasonal transmission window and makes it particularly important during dry-season residual transmission.
It is a highly anthropophilic night biter that enters houses and rests indoors. Its long adult lifespan (often 2–3 weeks) increases the probability that a given mosquito will live long enough to pick up malaria parasites, incubate them, and transmit to a second person — making it a disproportionately effective vector.
Insecticide resistance is a growing concern across the funestus range, complicating net-based control.
Biting behaviour
Night-biting, active throughout the night. Strongly human-biting. Rests indoors in houses during the day.
Habitat
Semi-permanent vegetated water bodies — marshes, swamp edges, irrigation channels, stream fringes with aquatic vegetation.
Diseases transmitted
How to identify
Where found
Sub-Saharan Africa, with highest impact in East, Central, and Southern Africa.
Precautions
Recommended Protection
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Countries where Anopheles funestus is relevant
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Vector information is sourced from WHO, CDC, and ECDC. Not medical advice. Personal decisions on repellents, vaccinations, or medication belong with a qualified travel health professional.