Biological control of mosquitoes with mermithids

Mermithid nematodes parasitizing mosquitoes have substantial potential for vector control. Studies on the physiological ecology of Romanomermis culicivorax have defined some of the general requirements of mermithid nematodes and produced general guidelines for the experimental release of mermithids in biological control. Experimental field studies have established the biological control potential of R. culicivorax, but further development and ulilization of this parasite will require a substantial commitlnent of scientific man-years and ftmds.