• Ahmed Tabbabi, Jabeur Daaboub, Ben CheikhRajaRLaboratory of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine of Monastir, University of Monastir, Tunisia., Ali Laamari, Mohamed Feriani, Chokri Boubaker, Ben JhaIbtissemILaboratory of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine of Monastir, University of Monastir, Tunisia., and Ben CheikhHassenHLaboratory of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine of Monastir, University of Monastir, Tunisia..
• Laboratory of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine of Monastir, University of Monastir, Tunisia.
• Afr Health Sci. 2019 Mar 1; 19 (1): 1368-1375.

ObjectiveTo examine the effects of urbanization on the resistance status of field populations of Culex pipiens pipiens to organophosphate insecticide.MethodsBioassays and biochemical assays were conducted on Tunisian field populations of Culex pipiens pipiens collected in four various areas differing in the degree of urbanization. Late third and early fourth larvae were used for bioassays with chlorpyrifos and adults mosquitoes for biochemical assays including esterase and acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activities.ResultsThe distribution of resistance ratios in this study appears to be influenced by the degree of urbanization. The highest resistance was recorded in the population from most urbanized areas in Tunisia whereas the lowest resistance was found in relatively natural areas. Both metabolic and target site mechanisms were involved in the recorded resistance.ConclusionThis is the first study in Tunisia showing evidence of the impact of urbanization on the resistance level in Culex pipiens pipiens. Proper management of the polluted breeding sites in the country and effective regulation of water bodies from commercial and domestic activities appear to be critical for managing insecticide resistance.

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