Efficacy of various larvicides on ecologically different populations of Aedes albopictus from Kota and Barmer regions of Rajasthan

Abstract

Aedes albopictus, also known as the Asian tiger mosquito, is a vector of several arboviruses that pose significant public health threats globally. To control these disease vectors, various chemical and biological methods have been employed, with reports indicating the development of resistance to conventional insecticides. In this context, this study aimed to assess the susceptibility of Aedes albopictus populations from the Barmer and Kota regions in Rajasthan, India, to three distinct larvicidal agents: temephos, neem oil, and Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti). The study utilized third instar larvae and conducted bioassays with different larvicides. The results revealed that the Barmer strain of Aedes albopictus displayed greater susceptibility to temephos, neem oil, and Bti compared to the Kota strain. Temephos, a conventional larvicide, exhibited comparable efficacy in both populations. Neem oil, derived from Azadirachta indica, demonstrated broad-spectrum larvicidal activity but with a notable 1.27-fold greater resistance observed in the Kota strain. In contrast, Bti displayed high efficacy in both populations, with the Barmer strain showing 1.6-fold greater susceptibility. The research emphasizes the importance of environmentally friendly larvicides and community-driven vector control strategies in mitigating the impact of mosquito-borne diseases, highlighting the need for region-specific approaches. Understanding resistance mechanisms and optimizing eco-friendly interventions are crucial in the fight against vector-borne diseases.