Psorophora ferox is true about disease transmission?

• A. Not believed to be a vector of any disease
• B. Major vector of SLE
• C. Overwinters as eggs
• D. Larvae develop in clean water in streams

Answer: (A)

Psorophora ferox is a floodwater mosquito, and the most important idea is that not every mosquito species acts as a disease vector for humans. There isn’t solid evidence that Psorophora ferox transmits human pathogens, so it is not believed to be a disease vector. The viruses most commonly associated with human disease, like St. Louis encephalitis, are transmitted mainly by Culex species, not this floodwater mosquito. Additionally, Psorophora ferox breeds in ephemeral floodwaters after rains rather than in streams or clean water, so its ecological niche doesn’t align with transmitting major pathogens. In short, its role in disease transmission is not established, which is why the statement about it not being a disease vector is the best choice.