Malaria has plagued many third world countries for decades. The disease is driven by the malaria carrying mosquitoes that are prevalent in the area. Researchers studying Anopheles mosquitoes are noticing that the back and forth sexual activity between males and females is driving the insect’s ability to carry malaria.
Scientists were able to test and monitor 16 different species of mosquitoes and found that in four of them, males would cover their sperm with a large amount of steroid hormone. In doing this, the male is able to ensure they are the only one fathering their offspring. Additionally, female mosquitoes produce their own type of mixture made to modify the male’s hormones. In response, the mosquitoes produced are highly dangerous and able to carry malaria.