Use of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis and Methoprene to Control Asian Tiger Mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Skuse) (Diptera: Culicidae), in Non-circulating Hydroponics Tanks

Abstract

Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, (Bti) and methoprene (isopropyl (2E-4E)-11-trimethyl-2,4-dodecadienoate) were tested for control of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Skuse) in non-circulating hydroponics tanks of lettuce. The results showed that Bti and methoprene formulations reduced mosquito larvae and pupae population for the duration of the lettuce crop (4 to 5 wk) compared to the non-treated control. Bti and methoprene treatments, however, caused reduced lettuce head weight and root growth. Leaf lettuce cultivars ‘Red Sails’ and ‘Green Ice’ were more tolerant to Bti treatment compared to ‘Manoa’. Lowering the Bti (VectoBac G) application rate from 1.04 to 0.54g/m2 increased head weight and root growth for ‘Manoa‘ lettuce. The tank treatments presented in this study were not replicated due to the use of large, commercial-scale tanks and limited greenhouse space.