Biocontrol of Mosquito Larvae Using Calotropis Procera

Mosquitoes are one of the most important insect pests that affect the health and well being of humans worldwide.They are vectors for malaria, filaria, Chikungunya and dengue which are associated with high mortality and morbidity in Asian and African countries. Use of insecticides have lead to resurgence, adverse environmental effects and negative impact on human health. Biocontrol of mosquitoes is an environmentally friendly option and involves the use of biologically active plant extracts and other measures for their effective control. Extracts from Calotropis procera are reported to be effective against mosquito larvae and known to contain various phytochemicals. Biocontrol of mosquito larvae using C.procera extracts would hence be an effective option in pest control programmes particularly as an useful Integrated Pest Management technique in conjunction with other biocontrol agents.