SCAR markers and multiplex PCR-based identification of isomorphic species in the Anopheles dirus complex in Southeast Asia

The Anopheles dirus Peyton & Harrison complex of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) comprises seven known species, including important malaria vectors in Southeast Asia. Specific identification of each species of the complex, which cannot be distinguished using morphological characters, is crucial for understanding vector ecology and implementing effective control measures. Derived from individual random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers, sequence characterized amplified regions (SCAR) were analysed for the design of specific paired-primers. Combination of six SCAR primers resulted in the development of a simple, robust, single multiplex PCR able to identify three important malaria vectors among the four most common species (A, B, C, D) of the complex: species A from several Southeast Asian countries, species B from Perlis, Malaysia, and species C and D from Thailand.