The release of which one of the following into ponds and wells helps in controlling the mosquitoes?
Reviewed by Dalvoy
UPSC Civil Services preparation
- ACrab
- BDogfish
- CGambusia fishCorrect
- DSnail
Explanation
Gambusia fish, also known as mosquitofish, is a biological control agent used to manage mosquito populations. These fish are released into water bodies because they are larvivorous, meaning they specifically feed on mosquito larvae and pupae. By consuming the larvae before they can mature into adult mosquitoes, Gambusia helps prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue. Crabs, dogfish, and snails do not have this specific predatory behavior toward mosquito larvae, making Gambusia the most effective choice for this purpose.
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