Journal of Mosquito Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 237-246 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/jmr 241 genetic diversity and population structure of control agents, are crucial for their adaptability and long-term success. High genetic diversity in both natural and lab-reared populations of Hydrochara affinis suggests a strong adaptive capacity, making them suitable for field application (Kang et al., 2020). Additionally, the use of genetically engineered mosquitoes with gene drive technology requires careful site selection to maximize success and minimize risks (Lanzaro et al., 2021). 5 Advantages and Limitations 5.1 Benefits of biological control over chemical methods Biological control methods offer several advantages over traditional chemical insecticides in managing mosquito populations. One of the primary benefits is the reduced risk of resistance development. Chemical insecticides, such as organophosphates and pyrethroids, have led to significant resistance in mosquito populations due to their extensive and prolonged use (Chaudhry, 2019; Senthil-Nathan, 2020; Silva et al., 2020). In contrast, biological control agents, such as entomopathogenic bacteria (e.g., Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus), exhibit a slower rate of resistance development, making them a more sustainable option (Silva et al., 2020). Additionally, biological control methods are environmentally benign and target-specific, reducing the negative impact on non-target organisms, including beneficial insects and other wildlife (Chaudhry, 2019; Onen et al., 2020; Senthil-Nathan, 2020). For instance, plant-derived compounds and green synthesized metallic nanoparticles are biodegradable and safe for non-target species, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides (Chaudhry, 2019; Onen et al., 2020). Moreover, biological control agents can be cost-effective in the long run, as they often require fewer applications and can be self-sustaining (Onen et al., 2020; Ogunlade et al., 2023). 5.2 Potential risks and limitations Despite their advantages, biological control methods also have several limitations and potential risks. One significant limitation is the variability in effectiveness due to environmental factors. For example, the efficacy of biological agents like Wolbachia can be affected by seasonality and temperature fluctuations, which may lead to the loss of infection in mosquito populations during heatwaves (Dahmana and Mediannikov, 2020; Ogunlade et al., 2023). Another challenge is the complexity of producing and maintaining biological control agents. For instance, the production of predatory mosquitoes like Toxorhynchites rutilus septentrionalis requires careful management to prevent cannibalism and ensure high adult yield, which can be labor-intensive and costly. Additionally, the integration of biological control agents into existing mosquito control programs may require significant changes in infrastructure and training, posing logistical challenges (Schiller et al., 2019). Furthermore, there is a risk of unintended ecological consequences. The introduction of non-native biological control agents could potentially disrupt local ecosystems and harm non-target species (Chaudhry, 2019). Therefore, thorough risk assessments and monitoring are essential to mitigate these potential impacts. 5.3 Integration with other control strategies (e.g., integrated pest management) Integrating biological control methods with other mosquito control strategies, such as chemical, mechanical, and environmental methods, can enhance overall effectiveness and sustainability. This integrated pest management (IPM) approach leverages the strengths of each method while mitigating their individual limitations (Chaudhry, 2019; Arias-Castro et al., 2020; Wooding et al., 2020). For example, combining biological control agents with chemical insecticides can reduce the reliance on chemicals and delay the development of resistance in mosquito populations (Arias-Castro et al., 2020). The use of semiochemicals in odour-based traps can complement biological control by enhancing the selectivity and efficacy of traps, thereby improving mosquito surveillance and control (Wooding et al., 2020). Additionally, environmental management practices, such as eliminating breeding sites and improving water management, can further support the effectiveness of biological control agents (Chaudhry, 2019; Ogunlade et al., 2023).
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