Vector ability of mosquitoes for isolates of Plasmodium elongatum from raptors in Florida

Three isolates of Plasmodium elongatum were obtained from 3 species of raptors (red-tailed hawk [Buteo jamaicensis], bald eagle [Haliaeetus leucocephalus], and eastern screech owl [Otus asio]) from Florida using isodiagnostic techniques in Pekin ducks (Anas platyrhynchos). Six to 10 species of mosquitoes were tested for susceptibility to these 3 isolates. Complete development of the sporogonic cycle of the 3 isolates of P. elongatum occurred in 3 species of mosquitoes, Culex nigripalpus, Culex restuans, and Culex salinarius. The pattern of susceptibility was similar among the 3 isolates of P. elongatum in Cx. nigripalpus. Culex restuans and Cx. salinarius were significantly more susceptible than Cx. nigripalpus to the 3 isolates of P. elongatum tested. Culex nigripalpus transmitted all 3 isolates of P. elongatum from duck to duck both by bite and after intraperitoneal injection of sporozoites. Infections of the 2 isolates tested occurred in ducks after intraperitoneal injection of sporozoites from Cx. restuans and Cx. salinarius. The results suggest that these 3 Culex species are potential vectors of P. elongatum from raptors in Florida.