INTERACTIVE EFFECTS OF SALINITY AND MOSQUITO LARVICIDES TOXICITY TO LARVAE OF AEDES TAENIORHYNCHUS

Understanding the influence of salinity on the efficacy of mosquito larvicides in brackish water habitats is crucial for effective salt -marsh Aedes taeniorhynchus control. This study investigated the interactive effects of salinity on the toxicity of 3 commonly used mosquito larvicides: Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (VectoBac (R) 12AS), spinosad (Natular (R) SC), and S-methoprene (Altosid (R) 12AS) against Ae. taeniorhynchus larvae. Four salinity levels (0 ppt [parts per thousand], 8 ppt, 16 ppt, and 32 ppt) were tested in laboratory bioassays. The results revealed distinct responses of these larvicides to varying salinity levels. VectoBac 12AS displayed consistent efficacy across all salinity levels, indicating its suitability for brackish water habitats. In contrast, Natular 2EC exhibited increased effectiveness with higher salinity, making it a preferable choice for saline environments. Altosid 12AS showed its highest efficacy in freshwater, with reduced effectiveness as salinity increased. These findings underscore the need to consider salinity levels when selecting and applying mosquito larvicides in diverse aquatic habitats. Understanding the complex interplay between salinity and larvicide performance is essential for optimizing mosquito control strategies and mitigating mosquito -borne diseases in various environments.