# Anopheles hyrcanus (Diptera: Culicidae): yet another invasive mosquito species in Germany

## TL;DR

A new invasive mosquito species, Anopheles hyrcanus, was found in Germany, raising concerns about its potential to spread diseases.

## Contribution

The study reports the northernmost records of Anopheles hyrcanus in Germany and Europe.

## Key findings

- Anopheles hyrcanus was collected in Brandenburg, Germany, marking its northernmost occurrence worldwide.
- The species was found in floodplain areas approximately 25 km apart.
- The spread of the species may be linked to climate change.

## Abstract

From August to October 2024, 62 specimens of the non-native mosquito species Anopheles hyrcanus were trapped in the federal state of Brandenburg, northeastern Germany. At one site, 59 specimens, and at a second site, 3 specimens were collected, with both sites located in floodplain areas, approximately 25 km apart. The records represent the northernmost collection sites of this species worldwide. Anopheles hyrcanus is considered a potential vector of malaria parasites, dirofilarial worms, and various viruses, although vector capacity appears to be generally low. The findings in Germany follow the recent detections of the species in Hungary, Slovakia, Czechia, Austria, and Poland, suggesting possible establishment in more northern areas as a consequence of climate change.