How to Kill Mosquito Larva

Mosquito larvae thrive or survive in standing water habitats.

If left to their own devices, mosquito larvae can develop and mature into blood-sucking adults. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including temporary floodwater and snowmelt pools, marshes, swamps, lagoons and ponds and artificial containers. Shallow water is the preferred or ideal location for larval survival because there is less turbulence and wave action, according to the Cornell University College of Agriculture Life Sciences Department of Entomology. Killing mosquito larva, with the help of a reputable larvicide, is a must if you want to control the mosquito population in your area.

Things You'll Need

• Gambusia fish
• Larvicide insecticide
• Garden pond
• Vegetation/plants

Instructions

1. Control mosquito breeding sites by ridding your property of standing water where mosquito larvae thrive. The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture recommends you change water in bird baths and wading pools at least once a week and dispose of old tires, buckets, aluminum cans, plastic sheeting and other items that can hold water.

2. Stock larvae-eating fish, such as the gambusia, in established ponds or other larvae-infested water habitats on your property. The gambusia, or mosquitofish as they're commonly called, feed on the larval and pupal stages of mosquitoes and usually live for about two to three years. Purchase the gambusia fish or other mosquito-eating fish online or from specialty pet shops.

3. Kill the mosquito larvae with a reputable larvicide product. Larvicides are not harmful to fish, pets or humans as long as the product is used according to label directions. Cornell University's Department of Entomology recommends using larvicide products that contain Bacillus thuringiensis or methoprene for maximum success.

4. Attract predators of mosquito larvae to your property. Dragonflies, damselflies and aquatic beetles are natural predators of mosquito larvae and are attracted to yards featuring small garden ponds stocked with plenty of above water and underwater vegetation or plants.

Tips & Warnings

• Reapply the larvicide insecticide regularly to ensure lasting success.

• Some states or local governments require a special permit to stock certain mosquito-eating fish such as the gambusia fish.

References

• Cornell University College of Agriculture Life Sciences Department of Entomology: Mosquito Biology for the Home Owner
• University of Kentucky College of Agriculture: Mosquitoes-Practical Advice for Homeowners