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Larviciding
Treating standing bodies of water with these biological insecticides and pesticides will kill mosquitoes before they mature – with a generally benign impact on the environment.
Mosquitoes need water to lay their eggs. These eggs turn into mosquito larvae and pupae before they hatch into adults. In cases where sources of standing water can’t be eliminated, larviciding is the best way to prevent tens of thousands of mosquitoes from becoming biting adults. Following is an overview of commonly used larvicides:
- Bti
- Methoprene
- Temephos
- Monomolecular Films
- Oils
Larvicides: Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) and Bacillus sphaericus
Commercial Names: 26 Bti products are registered in the United States, including Aquabac, Teknar, Vectobac and LarvX. Bacillus sphaericus products can also be used.
How it works: Bti and Bacillus sphaericus are microbial larvicides that are naturally occurring bacterium. Mosquito larvae eat the larvicide product – which is made up of the dormant spore form of the bacterium and an associated pure toxin. The toxin disrupts the gut in the mosquito, preventing maturation.
Where it’s used: Irrigation ditches, flood water, standing pools, pastures, tidal water, fresh or saltwater marshes and storm retention areas.
Toxicity to humans: Extensive testing prior to EPA registration showed that Bti and Bacillus sphaericus pose no concerns for human health when used according to label directions.
Toxicity to the environment: No risks to wildlife, non-target species or the environment when applied correctly.
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