Details of this species in Tutuila Is. Status: Native
Invasiveness: Uncertain
Occurrence: Established
Source: Jarvi et al. 2003 Arrival Date:
Introduction: Species Notes for this Location:
A genetic study by Jarvi et al of P. relictum from American Samoa suggest a close relationship with Hawaiian P. relictum. However the lack of cross-reactivity indicates that they are antigenically distinct. In terms of vectors for P. relictum present on American Samoa "at least fourteen species of four genera of mosquitoes are known to exist in American Samoa, of which six have been documented on the island of Tutuila (Kami and Miller 1998). Some species are considered endemic or native to the Samoan Islands (e.g., Aedes samoanus, Aedes tutuilae and Culex samoanensis) while others are introduced (e.g., Culex quinquefasciatus) (Buxton 1927)." (Jarvi et al. 2003). Management Notes for this Location:
Impacts:
Parasitism: "Malaria in American Samoa may be maintained by native mosquito vectors and Plasmodium variants that are not as pathogenic to native Samoan birds. High prevalence (59%) of chronic infections, the relative stability of the native land bird communities, and the presence of mosquito vectors which are considered endemic and capable of transmitting Plasmodium suggest that these parasites may be indigenous to American Samoa. Thus, unlike Hawaii, they may have a long coevolutionary history with their hosts". "More detailed studies of the epidemiology and pathogenicity of these parasites are needed to determine their physiological costs and population level impacts. The unintended introduction of new parasites, variants, or vectors and the impacts of unpredictable environmental stressors could, however, destabilize this system and affect long-term viability of forest bird populations on these islands" (Jarvi et al. 2003). Last Modified: 30/03/2010 11:47:34 a.m.
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