Researchers report that a close-up smartphone photo submitted through NASA’s GLOBE Observer app showed a mosquito larva collected from a tyre in Antananarivo. The image was taken in 2020 and was found two years later when scientists reviewed historical data.
The team led by Ryan Carney trained AI image-recognition tools on thousands of verified photos. Using those tools, they developed a citizen science method that helped confirm the larva as Anopheles stephensi. The World Health Organization warns that this species is a growing threat to malaria control in Africa.
The researchers point to three free apps—iNaturalist, Mosquito Alert and GLOBE Observer—and say people with a smartphone and a 60x clip-on lens can send close-up photos. They also recommend using the Global Mosquito Observations Dashboard, but note that lack of phones, internet and awareness can limit participation.
Difficult words
- mosquito — A small flying insect that can bite.
- species — A group of similar living things.
- carry — To have and transport something.
- malaria — A disease spread by mosquito bites.
- photos — Pictures taken with a camera.
- monitoring — Watching or keeping track of something.
- control — To manage or regulate something.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why is citizen science important in research?
- How do you think technology helps in studying wildlife?
- What are some ways to control mosquito populations?
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