Experimental Hybridization of Geographic Strains ofAnopheles stephensi(Diptera: Culicidae)

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Abstract
Differences in egg structure, fecundity, feeding behavior, susceptibility to Plasmodium cynomolgi malaria, and longevity were demonstrated in 3 laboratory strains of Anopheles stephensi Liston originating from India, Iran, and Iraq. The 6 reciprocal genetic crosses of the 3 strains were made, and the fecundities of the 6 parental crosses and of the 6 types of F1 hybrids were determined and compared with those of the 3 parent strains. An intricate pattern of interstrain fertility was observed. Although increased fecundity was observed in certain parental crosses, reduced fecundity was observed in others. Similar effects were observed in the F1 hybrids. These effects were found to be due mainly to decreased or increased egg development or hatch rate, or both. Oviposition rates did not vary greatly, and no abnormality in gonadal development was found. The findings are discussed with respect to taxonomy, population genetics, evolution, and possibilities of genetic control of the species.

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