Effectiveness of slow release formulations of fenthion (Baytex) in the control of Mansonia breeding in polluted pond habitats.

Effectiveness of two types of granular formulations of fenthion (Baytex) was evaluated in controlling the breeding of Mansonia mosquitos in polluted pond habitats. Calcium carbonate and sand granular formulations, when applied at 2.50 g/m2 surface area with an average depth of 0.5 m were found to be effective in keeping the habitats completely free from Mansonia breeding for 14 days and 18 days respectively. Release of insecticide was slow and the effective duration of control after a single application was relatively longer in the sand formulation when compared to the calcium carbonate formulation. Single application of calcium carbonate and sand granular formulations of fenthion could effectively prevent Mansonia adult emergence for 23 and 30 days, respectively in polluted pond habitats, without causing any adverse effect on non-target insects.