Computer simulation of the effectiveness of male-linked translocations for the control of Anopheles albimanus Wiedemann

• Published in: The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene Vol. 28; no. 1; p. 155
• Main Authors: Seawright, J.A, Haile, D.G, Rabbani, M.G, Weidhaas, D.E
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.01.1979
• Subjects: Animals; Anopheles - genetics; Computers; Female; Fertility; Heterozygote; Malaria - prevention & control; Malaria - transmission; Male; Models, Biological; Population Density; Translocation, Genetic
• ISSN: 0002-9637; 1476-1645
• DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.1979.28.155

A deterministic simulation model was used to establish the potential value of releasing male-linked translocation heterozygotes as a control measure for Anopheles albimanus Wiedemann. Theoretical population reductions exceeding 90% were obtained within 90 and 120 days after releases at initial ratios of 5 translocation males (TM): 1 normal male (NM) and 1 TM: 1 NM, respectively. Additional simulations emphasized the importance of the need for a method that would eliminate females from the release material. Releases containing 15% females were less effective than those with none. When a malaria subroutine was included in the model, the calculations showed that all the theoretical releases greatly reduced the number of malaria-infective females and therefore would have a profound effect on transmission of the disease. The number of malaria-infective females present was eliminated completely when only translocation males were released; however, a small number were present when the releases contained 15% females. Male-linked translocation males required longer periods of time to bring about population control than males that were completely sterile.