Understanding Mosquito Resistance to Insecticides

Mosquitoes that transmit malaria are developing resistance to insecticides. This resistance arises due to genetic mutations that occur during DNA replication, leading to differences in traits. Natural selection favors mosquitoes with resistance traits, making them more common over time. The use of insecticides kills most mosquitoes, but those with resistance survive and pass on their genes. Monitoring mosquito DNA helps track resistance mutations, allowing for better-targeted interventions to prevent the spread of resistance.

What is the primary issue with mosquitoes in relation to insecticides?

• They are becoming more numerous.

• They are becoming resistant to insecticides.

• They are becoming extinct.

• They are becoming less harmful.

How do mutations occur in DNA?

• Through intentional changes by the organism.

• Due to errors in the DNA copying process.

• By exposure to sunlight.

• Through dietary changes.

What can small differences in DNA lead to?

• Identical traits in all individuals.

• Immediate extinction.

• Unique traits that may enhance survival.

• No change in the organism.

What role does natural selection play in mosquito resistance?

• It increases the prevalence of resistant mosquitoes.

• It eliminates all mosquitoes.

• It decreases the resistance of mosquitoes.

• It has no effect on mosquito populations.

Why do insecticides become less effective over time?

• Resistant mosquitoes pass on their traits to offspring.

• Mosquitoes become immune to all chemicals.

• Insecticides lose their potency naturally.

• Mosquitoes stop reproducing.

What is a consequence of increased mosquito resistance?

• Mosquitoes become less harmful.

• Insecticides become more effective.

• Controlling mosquito populations becomes more challenging.

• Mosquito populations decrease.

How can monitoring mosquito DNA help in combating resistance?

• By making mosquitoes more susceptible to insecticides.

• By increasing mosquito populations.

• By identifying new mutations and tracking resistance.

• By predicting weather patterns.

What is the benefit of understanding the landscape of resistance?

• It ensures mosquitoes become extinct.

• It helps in making timely and targeted decisions.

• It allows for random insecticide use.

• It has no practical application.

What is the ultimate goal of monitoring and targeting resistance?

• To eliminate all mosquitoes.

• To ensure mosquitoes are resistant to all insecticides.

• To halt resistance before it becomes widespread.

• To increase the number of resistant mosquitoes.