Evaluating the impact of declining tsetse fly (Glossina pallidipes) habitat in the Zambezi valley of Zimbabwe

Matawa, Farai, Murwira, Amon and Atkinson, Peter M. (2019) Evaluating the impact of declining tsetse fly (Glossina pallidipes) habitat in the Zambezi valley of Zimbabwe. Geocarto International. (doi:10.1080/10106049.2019.1576780).

Abstract

Tsetse flies transmit trypanosomes that cause Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) in humans and African Animal Trypanosomiasis (AAT) in animals. Understanding historical trends in the spatial distribution of tsetse fly habitat is necessary for planning vector control measures. The objectives of this study were (i) to test for evidence of any trends in suitable tsetse fly habitat and (ii) to test whether there is an association between trypanosomiasis detected from livestock sampled in dip tanks and local tsetse habitat in the project area. Results indicate a significant decreasing trend in the amount of suitable habitat. There is no significant correlation between trypanosomiasis prevalence rates in cattle and distance from patches of suitable tsetse habitat. The observed low trypanosomiasis prevalence and the lack of dependence on suitable tsetse fly habitat can be explained by the observed decreases in suitable tsetse habitat, which themselves are due to expansion of settlement and agriculture in North Western Zimbabwe.

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Contributors

Author: Peter M. Atkinson

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