Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
Anopheles mosquitoes are a type of mosquito that can transmit the parasite responsible for malaria. They are known for their ability to bite humans and spread the disease.
Malaria: A disease caused by a parasite transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes.
Vector: Any organism, such as a mosquito or tick, that carries and transmits pathogens (disease-causing agents) from one host to another.
Mosquito-borne diseases: Diseases transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes, including malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, and West Nile virus.