Using Edible Fish to Control Malaria Mosquitoes in Kenya
Author Information
Author(s): Howard Annabel FV, Zhou Guofa, Omlin Francois X
Primary Institution: International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe)
Hypothesis
Can the introduction of the larvivorous fish Oreochromis niloticus reduce malaria mosquito populations in abandoned fishponds?
Conclusion
The introduction of Oreochromis niloticus significantly reduced mosquito larval densities in treated ponds.
Supporting Evidence
- After introducing the fish, mosquito densities dropped by over 94% in treated ponds.
- The control pond saw an increase in mosquito numbers due to climatic factors.
- The study provides the first field trial data on using Oreochromis niloticus for mosquito control.
Takeaway
This study shows that adding fish to ponds can help reduce the number of mosquito larvae, which can help fight malaria.
Methodology
The study involved introducing Oreochromis niloticus into abandoned fishponds and measuring the effect on mosquito larvae over six months.
Limitations
The study did not include a contemporary untreated control after the experiment in pond A.
Participant Demographics
The study was conducted in Kisii Central District, western Kenya, with a population density of over 1,000 people per km².
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.0002
Statistical Significance
p < 0.0002
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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