Title : Toxorhynchites splendens: A sustainable biological control agent against arboviral vector Aedes mosquitoes
Abstract:
Background: Toxorhynchites splendens (Diptera: Culicidae), commonly known as elephant mosquitoes or mosquito eaters, are the largest mosquito species globally. Unlike other mosquitoes, they do not feed on humans but instead prey on the larvae of other mosquito species, making them potential biological control agents.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the predatory potential of Toxorhynchites splendens against Aedes mosquito larvae and to assess how various environmental factors, such as container type, water volume, and depth, influence their predation behavior. Additionally, we examined differences in their predation rates during day and night.
Methods: Larvae of Toxorhynchites and Aedes mosquitoes were collected from discarded tires using dipping and pipetting methods. In a controlled laboratory setting, we assessed the impact of different container types, water volumes, and depths on the predation efficiency of Toxorhynchites splendens. We also compared their predation rates between daytime and nighttime conditions.
Results: A single Toxorhynchites splendens larva was capable of consuming up to 45 Aedes larvae within 24 hours, with an average predation rate of 25.18 (± 9.35) larvae. Predation rates were consistent across all tested container types, water volumes, and depths. Although predation was more active during the day, there were no significant differences between day and night predation capabilities.
Conclusion: The findings highlight Toxorhynchites splendens larvae as a promising biological control agent for reducing Aedes mosquito populations. Their consistent predatory performance across various environmental conditions and lighting suggests their potential for effective mosquito management in diverse settings, independent of seasonal or light variations.
