Development of alginate-based slow release formulation of Bacillus sphaericus for controlling Culex quinquefasciatus.

Seven types of formulations were prepared as granules using the larvicidal factor of Bacillus sphaericus and different concentrations of calcium alginate which was used as matrix to immobilize and entrap the active ingredient (ai). All formulations were tested in disused wells against Culex quinquefasciatus at the rate of 15 kg ai per hectare. Among the seven types tested, the type 2 which contained 5% calcium alginate as immobilizing agent, exhibited the maximum larvicidal activity. Persistent control in breeding was noticed for 8 weeks with this formulation type.