JMR_2024v14n2

Journal of Mosquito Research 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 100-110 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/jmr 105 suggested to help reduce mosquito population density and malaria transmission around irrigation schemes (Hawaria et al., 2020). 4.3 Case study 3: pesticide use in South America 4.3.1 Influence of pesticide application on mosquito ecology The use of pesticides in agricultural practices in South America has a significant influence on mosquito ecology. Pesticides can affect mosquito populations by reducing larval and adult mosquito densities. However the extensive use of insecticides has also led to the development of insecticide resistance in mosquito populations. In Ghana for instance Anopheles gambiae populations from irrigated rice areas exhibited high resistance to DDT and pyrethroid insecticides which are commonly used in agriculture (Chabi et al., 2016). 4.3.2 Consequences for mosquito-borne disease control The development of insecticide resistance among mosquito populations poses a major challenge for mosquito-borne disease control. Insecticide-resistant mosquitoes are more difficult to control leading to higher transmission rates of diseases such as malaria. The resistance observed in Anopheles gambiae populations in Ghana underscores the need for integrated vector management strategies that combine chemical and non-chemical control methods to effectively manage mosquito populations and reduce disease transmission (Chabi et al., 2016). 5 Mitigation Strategies and Sustainable Practices 5.1 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in agriculture Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a comprehensive approach that combines preventive and therapeutic measures to manage pests, including herbivorous insects, pathogens, and weeds, while reducing the use of synthetic pesticides. The role of genetic diversity, the necessity of understanding resistance mechanisms, and the benefits of interdisciplinary research are crucial in formulating robust IPM strategies (Figure 2). IPM aims to promote sustainable agriculture by reducing reliance on chemical control and integrating biological control methods, biopesticides, and other environmentally friendly practices (Baker et al., 2020; Green et al., 2020; Deguine et al., 2021). Despite its potential, the adoption of IPM faces several challenges, such as inconsistent definitions, insufficient farmer participation, and a lack of understanding of ecological principles (Deguine et al., 2021). To overcome these obstacles, it is essential to enhance education and extension services, foster collaboration between organic and IPM communities, and implement policies that encourage the use of biological control methods (Baker et al., 2020; Deguine et al., 2021). Green et al. (2020) present the concept of evolutionary IPM, emphasizing the necessity of integrating evolutionary principles into pest management strategies. The diagram illustrates the interactions between research, social, and economic aspects in a hierarchical structure, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, stakeholder involvement, and economic considerations in implementing evolutionary IPM. The diagram also underscores the potential for continuous improvement and enhancing societal understanding of the evolutionary framework. 5.2 Sustainable water management practices Sustainable water management practices are essential in shaping mosquito habitats particularly in agricultural settings where water bodies can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Effective water management strategies include optimizing irrigation practices to reduce standing water implementing water conservation techniques and using biological control agents to manage mosquito populations in water bodies (Fahad et al., 2021), These practices not only help in controlling mosquito habitats but also contribute to the overall sustainability of agricultural systems by conserving water resources and reducing the environmental impact of farming activities. 5.3 Habitat modification and biological control Habitat modification and biological control are essential components of sustainable pest management strategies. By modifying agricultural landscapes to reduce mosquito breeding sites, such as draining standing water and managing vegetation, mosquito populations can be significantly reduced (Fahad et al., 2021). Additionally, the use

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