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Effects of lambda-cyhalothrin on mosquito larvae and predatory aquatic insects.
Sharon P Lawler1, Deborah A Dritz, Julie A Christiansen
1Department of Entomology and Center for Vector-Borne Disease Research, University of California, 1 Shields Ave., Davis, CA 95616, USA. splawler@ucdavis.edu
Pest Management Science
|August 11, 2006
Summary
Lambda-cyhalothrin in rice fields offers mosquito control but can harm beneficial insects and promote resistance. Careful communication between growers and mosquito control is advised.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Entomology
- Pest Management
- Environmental Toxicology
Background:
- Agricultural insecticides impact mosquito populations in rice fields.
- Insecticides can control mosquitoes, disrupt natural predators, and drive insecticide resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the insecticidal activity duration of lambda-cyhalothrin.
- To assess its effects on predatory insects and various mosquito larvae strains in rice fields.
Main Methods:
- Field and laboratory experiments were conducted.
- Lambda-cyhalothrin's persistence and efficacy were tested against susceptible and resistant mosquito strains (Culex tarsalis, Cx pipiens s.l.).
- Impact on predatory insect populations was monitored.
Main Results:
- Lambda-cyhalothrin provided control of susceptible mosquitoes for up to 21 days.
- Activity against resistant Cx pipiens s.l. was reduced but suppressed survival for over a week.
- Predatory insect populations were suppressed for 29 days.
- The insecticide persisted in sediment, with gradually decreasing activity.
Conclusions:
- Agricultural lambda-cyhalothrin use offers incidental mosquito control.
- Persistence in sediment may select for resistant mosquitoes.
- Disruption of biological control is possible due to prolonged mosquito survival before predator recovery.
- Communication between growers and mosquito control agencies is recommended regarding pesticide use.