Which genus of mosquitoes is known for being vectors of malaria?

The genus Anopheles is recognized as the primary vector for malaria transmission. These mosquitoes have specific behaviors and characteristics that make them effective at spreading the Plasmodium parasites, which cause malaria in humans. Female Anopheles mosquitoes typically feed on blood, which is necessary for their egg development, and they are most active during the night or early morning hours. This behavior contributes to their role in malaria transmission, as they often bite humans during these times.

In contrast, while Culex and Aedes mosquitoes are prominent in their own right, they are associated with other diseases such as West Nile virus (Culex) and dengue or Zika virus (Aedes) but do not have a significant role in malaria transmission. Coquillettidia, on the other hand, is less common and is not known for being a major vector of any significant human diseases. Thus, Anopheles is uniquely identified with malaria, highlighting its critical role in the epidemiology of the disease.