The effect of nosematosis on the development ofPlasmodium falciparum inAnopheles stephensi

Abstract
To quantify the effect ofNosema algerae (Microsporida, Nosematidae) on the development ofPlasmodium falciparum inAnopheles stephensi (Diptera, Culicidae), we carried out infection experiments under standardized laboratory conditions. Apart from a mean reduction of 69% in oocyst development, smaller numbers of oocysts and fewer sporozoites were found in theNosema-infected mosquitoes. In addition, nosematosis resulted in higher mortality. The potential role ofNosema algerae as a biological control agent is discussed.