Comparative Analysis of the Common Household Agents on Aedes and Culex Larval Development and Control

Abstract

Mosquitoes are known for spreading dangerous diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and filariasis. Although chemical and biological methods are commonly used to control mosquito populations, their drawbacks have sparked growing interest in alternative solutions that are effective, low-cost, and environmentally friendly. This study investigates the larvicidal effects of household items such as salt, liquid dishwashing detergent, and vinegar on Aedes and Culex mosquito larvae under laboratory conditions. Larvae were exposed to five concentrations of each substance, and lethal concentration (LC₅₀) values were determined using probit analysis. For Aedes aegypti, LC₅₀ values were 1.152% for salt, 0.015% for dishwashing liquid, and 0.084% for vinegar. For Aedes albopictus, the values were 1.200%, 0.023%, and 0.118%, respectively. Meanwhile, Culex quinquefasciatus showed LC₅₀ values of 1.335% (salt), 0.021% (dishwashing liquid), and 0.131% (vinegar). There were no significant differences in larval mortality among species treated with salt, (p = .966) and vinegar, (p = .151) although a slight difference was observed for dishwashing liquid (p = .032). All  treatments caused clear behavioral and physical changes in the larvae. Larvae showed abnormal behaviours such as restless movement and self-biting, resulting in a curled “C-ring” shape. Darkening of body parts, especially the abdomen and anal papillae, was observed and is attributed to melanization resulting from tissue damage. These results suggest that common household products have potential as practical, sustainable tools for mosquito control at the community level.