Central Idea

In recent months, Indian states such as Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Punjab have introduced mosquitofish to combat mosquito infestations.
However, the unintended ecological consequences of introducing this invasive species have raised concerns.

Backgrounder: Vector Borne Diseases

Global Mosquito-Borne Disease Prevalence: Mosquito-borne diseases affect over 150 countries and 500 million people worldwide.
India’s Burden: India alone reports approximately 40 million cases of mosquito-borne diseases annually.

Introduction in the 1960s: In the 1960s, biological control methods were adopted to combat mosquitoes, including the introduction of mosquitofish (Gambusia species).
Environmental Alternatives: These methods were considered environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides, which posed health and environmental risks.
Global Proliferation: Mosquitofish, originally from the U.S., have now become widespread globally, adapting to various environments with adverse ecological impacts.

Historical Introduction: In 1928, Gambusia was introduced in India during British rule, mainly for malaria control.
Multiple Authorities Involved: Various governmental and private organizations, including the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), National Institute of Malaria Research (NIMR), municipal corporations, and health departments, introduced mosquitofish across India.

Invasive Alien Species: Mosquitofish are considered among the hundred most detrimental invasive alien species.
Negative Effects: They prey on native fauna, leading to the extinction of native fish, amphibians, and freshwater communities.
Examples from Other Countries: Australia and New Zealand have reported similar ecological harm due to introduced mosquitofish.
WHO’s Stand: The World Health Organization stopped recommending Gambusia for mosquito control since 1982.

Enforcement Measures: Stringent enforcement measures are essential to prevent further introduction of mosquitofish and mitigate past introductions’ consequences.
Alternative Solutions: Collaboration between mosquito biologists, entomologists, invasion ecologists, and fish taxonomists is suggested to identify native fish species capable of controlling mosquito larvae.
Local Solutions: Local alternatives should be favored over invasive species to preserve indigenous aquatic biodiversity and native species’ well-being.
National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC): The NCVBDC should remove its recommendation for the use of Gambusia and Poecilia (guppy) fishes for mosquito control.

India faces a pressing ecological challenge with the unintended consequences of mosquitofish introduction.
To safeguard the environment and native species, stringent enforcement and local solutions should replace invasive species in mosquito control efforts.