Biocontrol of larval mosquitoes by Acilius sulcatus (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Problems associated with resistant mosquitoes and the effects on non-target species by chemicals, evoke a reason to find alternative methods to control mosquitoes, like the use of natural predators. In this regard, aquatic coleopterans have been explored less compared to other insect predators. In the present study, an evaluation of the role of the larvae of Acilius sulcatus Linnaeus 1758 (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae) as predator of mosquito immatures was made in the laboratory. Its efficacy under field condition was also determined to emphasize its potential as bio-control agent of mosquitoes.

Methods

In the laboratory, the predation potential of the larvae of A. sulcatus was assessed using the larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus Say 1823 (Diptera: Culicidae) as prey at

SUBMITTER: Chandra G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2573887 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature