Detection of preimaginal forms of dengue vectors from environmental samples in Jaffna city, northern Sri Lanka: an eDNA-based approach

Vector surveillance is crucial for implementation of appropriate vector control strategies to reduce the transmission vector-borne diseases such as dengue, a major public health concern in Sri Lanka. Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus are primary secondary vectors dengue virus, respectively. Dengue endemic Jaffna District presence from many water bodies, including brackish habitats, reported. The use environmental DNA (eDNA) has emerged novel tool detect identify species present any aquatic environment. This study, used determine different habitats Municipal limits District. Potential pre-imaginal developmental sites were identified randomly selected 10 blocks consisting at least 40 houses within study location. One hundred twenty samples without visible preimaginal forms collected these extract eDNA. PCR assays performed using species-specific primers designed albopictus. was 12 (10.0%) 30 (25.0%), both detected nine (7.5%). salinity which ranged 0–7 gL-1. results revealed that eDNA an indirect but valid monitoring mosquitos