The protozoan plasmodium falciparum is transmitted by?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which vector transmits Plasmodium falciparum, a protozoan parasite. It is the most dangerous of the malaria parasites and is very common in Nigeria.

Step 2: Explain the concept Malaria is caused by protozoans of the genus Plasmodium. The main species are P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale and P. malariae. They are all transmitted by one type of vector, the female Anopheles mosquito.

Only the female bites humans, because she needs a blood meal to develop her eggs. The male feeds on plant juices and nectar.

Step 3: Work through the options

• A. Female Anopheles mosquito: Correct. It is the vector for malaria.
• B. Female Aedes mosquito: Wrong. It transmits yellow fever, dengue and Zika.
• C. Female Culex mosquito: Wrong. It transmits filariasis (elephantiasis) and some forms of encephalitis.
• D. Female blackfly (Simulium): Wrong. It transmits onchocerciasis (river blindness).

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A, female Anopheles mosquitoes.

Step 5: Exam tip Match each vector to its disease with this list:

• Anopheles → Ague (malaria)
• Aedes → yellow fever and dengue
• Culex → Common filariasis (elephantiasis)
• Blackfly → river blindness
• Tsetse fly → sleeping sickness

JAMB often tests vector-disease pairs, so learn this list well.