Objectives To estimate the pooled prevalence of Wolbachia infection in biting midges (Ceratopogonidae) across Southwest Asia and to evaluate ecological and biological factors associated with infection patterns. Study Design Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods A comprehensive search of international and regional databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, SID, MagIran) was conducted without date restriction. Eligible studies included those using molecular techniques to detect Wolbachia in Ceratopogonidae collected from Southwest Asia. Pooled prevalence was calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were performed to assess variations by country, species, altitude, habitat type, and sex. Heterogeneity and publication bias were evaluated using I2, Cochrans Q, and Eggers tests in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Results Twenty-four studies comprising 14,832 midges from six countries were included. The pooled prevalence of Wolbachia infection was 32.6% (95% CI: 28.4-36.9%; I2=78.3%). Iran showed the highest prevalence (38.2%), and Culicoides imicola was the most frequently infected species (36.8%). Higher prevalence was associated with lower altitudes (<500 m; p=0.012), rural habitats (p=0.034), and female midges (p=0.008). Limited evidence suggested the presence of cytoplasmic incompatibility and reduced bluetongue virus competence in infected midges. Conclusions Wolbachia infection is common among Ceratopogonidae in Southwest Asia and is influenced by ecological and biological factors. These findings highlight the potential of Wolbachia as a biocontrol tool in regional vector management, underscoring the need for further experimental and strain-level studies.
Moemenbellah-Fard, M. D., Abbasi, E.
Advertisement
Stats
- Recommendations n/a n/a positive of 0 vote(s)
- Views 1
- Comments 0