If human malaria returned to Michigan, which mosquito group would be targeted for control?

The correct answer is Anopheles, as this mosquito genus is the primary vector for malaria transmission to humans. Anopheles mosquitoes are known to carry the Plasmodium parasites that cause malaria, making them a critical focus for control efforts if malaria were to reemerge.

This control would be particularly important because preventing the spread of malaria relies significantly on targeting the vectors responsible for its transmission. Other mosquito groups, such as Aedes, Culex, and Mansonia, play roles in transmitting different diseases but are not associated with malaria. For instance, Aedes mosquitoes are primarily known for transmitting viruses like West Nile virus and Zika, while Culex mosquitoes also transmit diseases such as West Nile virus and St. Louis encephalitis. Mansonia mosquitoes are associated with diseases like lymphatic filariasis. Therefore, in the specific context of malaria, focusing on Anopheles mosquitoes is essential for effective vector control and minimizing the risk of human infection.