Variations in the adult ornamentation of anopheles (Cellia) Subpictus sibling species B in Eastern Sri Lanka

Abstract

Anopheles (Cellia) subpictus Grasi sensu lato is a secondary vector of malaria in Sri Lanka and exists as a species complex comprising all four reported sibling species (species A, B, C and D). Significant variations in the ornamental pattern of wings and palpi were observed among specimens identified as sibling species B based on egg morphology. This led to categorization of species B into four distinct populations. This article reports the pattern variations and discusses the implications for classification of species B as the reported variations may conceal perfect identification of members of this complex.