Mosquito Fish - Gambusia Affinis

[Caicoseagle]

Good Mornming People:

I live part time on a mosquito infected island that is a true paradise when the Mosquitos are not present and have had the most fabulous 5-7 years in my hidden paradise, that is until Hurricane Irene which seemed to drop a mosquito bomb on us.
The Turks and Caicos Government like many others is broke and is finding it difficult finding $$$ to deal with the problem.

Please tell me what your experiences are in utilizing Gambusia Affinis, the mosquito fish as a solution, do's and dont's, where to find them and what ever other info you can give us.

Deeply appreciated.

**** Zebo, Eagles Rest Villa's, Turks and Caicos Islands, B.W.I.

[black_knight]

Many countries have introduced these fish to help control mosquito populations. They are very hardy fish and can takeover. They are agressive little fish and are very hardy (invasive) tolerating fresh, brackish and even saltwater. They can consume 1-1.5 x their body weight in mosquito larvae, however there is much debate on their actual ability to controll mosquito populations. There is a website that is exploring this: www.gambusia.net
Of note countries in South East Asia/Pacific have tried to use these fish, like the Philippines. They haven't really helped. For examle the tiger mosquito (carrier of Dengue) breeds in stagnent water found in old tires and rubbish, gambusia aren't any help here. Carriers for malaria breed in clear waters found outside urban areas. These areas already have natural micropredators of mosquito larva. The gambusia just wind up eating the indigenous micropredators.
Usually increases in mosquito populations related to storms are due to increased standing water in areas where predators, such as fish can't reach them. Eg. buckets, tires, cans... Areas where water naturally occurs may see seasonal surges, but predators usually get their share, unless they are wiped out by pollution or spoiling there natural habitat or introducing harmful invasive species.

Bottom line. They may not be helpful.

[wildperu]

Zebo,

Any introduction of a non-native form of animal can have the potential for wreaking havoc on your Native populations. This includes introducing exotic fish as well. While there doesn't appear to be many options for using native freshwater fish in your little paradise, that would be a great first choice if you could find any (ie use what's already there rather than spreading something potentially invasive into your habitats). Black knight makes a good point about first doing "Vector Control" by checking the area for standing water, and eliminating these (old tires, bucket, plastic sheeting, etc.) at a minimum. Still water is needed for the females to lay eggs. THis is where you must start. Good Luck!