Distribution of dopa-oxidase isozymes among mosquito vectors of viral encephalitis.

Distribution of DOPA-oxidase isozymes in larval Culex pipiens pipiens, Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus and their hybrids was determined by agarose gel electrophoresis. Three zones of enzyme activity were detected in the subspecific and hybrid populations. Zone I was cathodic whereas Zones II and III were anodic. Electrophoretic variability was evident only in Zone II which was dimorphic for enzyme activity. Zones I and III were monomorphic. The subspecific and hybrid populations were distinguishable from one another only in Zone II. In all three populations, melanization was most intense in Zone II, less in Zone I, and least in Zone III.