ARS | Publication request: MOSQUITO CONTROL

Submitted to: Encyclopedia of Pest Management
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: September 14, 2005
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: This article reviews current technology used to control mosquitoes. Mosquito control is divided into two areas of responsibility: individual and community. Individuals can manage local mosquito populations through a combination of techniques including personal protection measures (e.g., use of repellents and protective clothing), vegetation management, yard chemical insecticide treatments (space sprays and vegetation treatments), source reduction and/or use of commercial traps. Management of mosquito problems often requires area-wide control by county-level abatement districts, which often utilize an integrated pest management approach (IPM). IPM approaches may include targeting the immature and adult stages. Measures aimed at the immature stages include water management and treating the developmental sites with chemical insecticides, insect growth regulators, and/or biological control agents such as Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti). Adults are managed through aerosol spraying of insecticides by ground and/or aerial equipment. In developing countries, there is an increasing emphasis on community participation, low technology, sustainability, and the integrated use of a variety of control tools that are adapted to local customs, conditions, and resources.