Distribution and feeding efficacy of larvivorous fishes of Goa

Fifteen species of larvivorous fishes, viz. Aplocheilus blockii, Aplocheilus lineatus, Rasbora daniconius, Puntius vittatus, Puntius melanampyx pradhani, Puntius amphibius, Macropodus cupanus, Danio aequipinnatus. Oreochromis mossambicus, Heteropneustes sp, Therapon jarbua, Etroplus suratensis, Mugil cephalus. Osteochilichthys nashii and Hypselobarbus dobsoni were collected from different parts of Goa. Their habitat wise distribution was studied and density was recorded. Daily average consumption of mosquito larvae varied between 62.5 and 736 per fish. On the basis of their larvivoracity and extensive distribution, Aplocheilus blockii and Rasbora daniconius are recommended for use in malaria control operations in Goa.