What type of insect is associated with malaria?

The insect most closely associated with malaria is the mosquito, particularly species from the Anopheles genus. Malaria is a parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, which are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are specifically adapted to carry and transmit the malaria parasite, making them a critical vector in the spread of the disease.

In the context of other options, ticks, fleas, and ants do not play a role in the transmission of malaria. Ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever, fleas are known for spreading diseases such as the plague, and ants have no known association with any parasitic disease transmission similar to that of mosquitoes. Thus, the unique relationship between the Anopheles mosquito and the malaria parasite underscores why this insect is the correct answer.