Classification of mosquito hemocytes into subtypes has thus far relied on morphological properties. Here, the authors develop new genetic resources that facilitate the visualization and analysis of hemocyte subtypes in Anopheles gambiae. By combining the expression of hemocyte-specific genetic markers with the analysis of morphology, ploidy, and phagocytic capacity, the authors identify twelve distinct subtypes, revealing the complexity and plasticity of these immune cells with unprecedented resolution.
- George-Rafael Samantsidis
- Hyeogsun Kwon
- Ryan C. Smith
