Verrallina ceylonica

Verrallina ceylonica is a species of mosquito in the genus Verrallina. It was originally described as Aedes ceylonicus by Frederick Wallace Edwards in 1917 and later transferred to the genus Verrallina. The name Aedes lankaensis, described by Stone & Knight in 1958, is considered a junior synonym. This species is endemic to Sri Lanka.

Ecology and behavior

Verrallina ceylonica likely breeds in temporary water sources, including flood pools, puddles, road ruts, and animal hoof prints in jungle areas, as well as coastal brackish water pools and natural containers such as plant axils. Females of this species are known to bite humans, particularly in shady jungle areas during the day, despite being primarily zoophilic.

Medical significance

There is no strong evidence to suggest that Verrallina ceylonica is a significant vector of diseases such as dengue or malaria. However, due to limited research specific to this species, its potential role in disease transmission remains uncertain.