A review of monomolecular surface films as larvicides and pupicides of mosquitoes.

Commercially available monomolecular surface films (Arosurf MSF and Agnique MMF, non-ionic products) are utilized as larvicides and pupicides of mosquitoes. They are biodegradable and spread spontaneously over the surface of the water to form an ultra-thin film (monomolecular layer), about one molecule in thickness. Their mode of action against mosquito larvae and pupae is physical rather than chemical. They lower the water surface tension, preventing suspension of the larvae and pupae at the water surface, subsequently suffocating them. They also interfere with emergence of the adults. Monomolecular surface film products have been shown to be relatively safe to non-target invertebrates and vertebrates, including humans. The laboratory and field efficacy of monomolecular films against aquatic organisms, primarily mosquitoes, is reviewed and non-target effects reported.