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Mosquito larvicidal potential of potash alum against malaria vector Anopheles stephensi (Liston)

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Abstract

Mosquito larviciding may prove to be an effective tool for incorporating into integrated vector management strategies for reducing malaria transmission. Here, we report the potential of potash alum, a traditionally known salt in Indian Ayurveda and Chinese medicine system, in malaria vector control by evaluating its aqueous suspension as larvicide and growth disruptor of Anopheles stephensi, under laboratory conditions. Immature stages of the mosquito were tested using WHO guidelines. 50 and 90% lethal concentrations among various larvae ranged between 2.1 to 48.74 ppm and 15.78 to 93.11 ppm, respectively. The results indicated that larvicidal effects of potash alum were comparable to various biological and chemical insecticides. The study provides considerable scope in exploiting local indigenous resources for the control of nuisance mosquito vectors.

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Acknowledgments

Authors are thankful to Prof. V.G. Das, Director, Dayalbagh Educational Institute for extending necessary facilities and support to carry out this research work.

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There exist no conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Dayalbagh Educational Institute, Dayalbagh, Agra, 282110, India

    Shabad Preet & K. C. Seema

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  1. Shabad Preet
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  2. K. C. Seema
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Correspondence to Shabad Preet.

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Preet, S., Seema, K.C. Mosquito larvicidal potential of potash alum against malaria vector Anopheles stephensi (Liston). J Parasit Dis 34, 75–78 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12639-010-0015-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12639-010-0015-2

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