Objective:

To compare the efficacy of three modern larvicides with the organophosphate temephos for control of Aedes aegypti in water tanks in Chiapas.

Materials and methods:

Trials were performed to compare the efficacy of pyriproxyfen, novaluron, two formulations of spinosad (granules and tablets) and temephos in oviposition traps and domestic water tanks.

Results:

Pyriproxyfen and temephos provided 2-3 weeks of complete control of larvae in oviposition traps, whereas spinosad granules and novaluron provided 7-12 weeks of control. Treatment of water tanks resulted in a significant reduction in oviposition by Ae. aegypt in houses (p<0.001). Higher numbers of larvae were present in temephos and pyriproxyfen-treated water tanks compared to novaluron and spinosad tablet treatments during most of the study.

Conclusion:

Spinosad formulations and novaluron were effective larvicides in this region. The poor performance of temephos may be indicative of reduced susceptibility in Ae. aegypti populations in Chiapas.