Assessing the effectiveness of bio essential oils on ecologically distinct populations of Aedes albopictus

Abstract

Aedes albopictus, a potential vector of dengue and a significant global arbovirus carrier, has seen its geographical distribution expand due to trade and climate change. The accumulation of waste materials in metropolitan areas has provided breeding grounds for this mosquito species. Vector control is crucial in preventing disease transmission since widespread vaccination for vector-borne illnesses, such as dengue, remains inaccessible. However, the indiscriminate use of insecticides in proximity to human habitats has led to the development of insecticide resistance in Aedes albopictus. This study aimed to evaluate the susceptibility of Aedes albopictus strains from Barmer and Kota regions of Rajasthan to bio-essential oils, including pine, eucalyptus, and infusion of pine and eucalyptus oils. The results showed that Barmer strain exhibited greater susceptibility to these oils compared to the Kota strain. Pine oil was found to be effective in reducing larval populations, with a 1.19-fold higher susceptibility in the Barmer strain (LC50: 31.458 mg/l) than the Kota strain (LC50: 37.723 mg/l). Eucalyptus oil displayed LC50: 45.920 mg/l for Kota strain while Barmer strain had LC50: 36.763 mg/l. Similarly, infusion of pine and eucalyptus oils had greater efficacy in Barmer strain (LC50: 28.032 mg/l) than the Kota strain (32.197 mg/l). This research emphasizes the importance of tailored vector control measures based on local susceptibility patterns and highlights the potential of plant-based larvicides in disease management. These findings suggest that the Kota region may require more robust vector control strategies than the Barmer region.