Malaria is transmitted by
**Core Concept**
Malaria is a mosquito-borne infectious disease caused by Plasmodium parasites that affect human red blood cells. The transmission of malaria primarily involves the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer involves the biological vector responsible for transmitting malaria. Anopheles mosquitoes, specifically the female species, are the primary vectors of malaria transmission. When an infected female Anopheles mosquito bites a human, it injects sporozoites into the bloodstream, which then infect liver cells and eventually red blood cells, leading to the development of malaria.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect as it does not specify the correct biological vector responsible for malaria transmission.
**Option B:** This option might be confusing, but it does not accurately describe the primary vector of malaria transmission. Ticks are vectors for other diseases such as Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect as it does not accurately describe the primary vector of malaria transmission. While other insects can transmit diseases, Anopheles mosquitoes are the primary vectors of malaria.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the Anopheles mosquito is the primary vector of malaria transmission, and the use of insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying are effective strategies for preventing malaria.
**Correct Answer: A. Anopheles mosquito**