USE OF INVASIVE FISH SPECIES FOR MOSQUITO CONTROL

PRELIMS BITS

1. Introduction
   • Controversy surrounding the use of invasive fish species for mosquito control in India.
   • National Green Tribunal’s directive for the Centre to respond regarding the release of two species: Gambusia affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia reticulata (Guppy).
2. Invasive Species
   • Definition of invasive species: Non-native organisms that disrupt local ecosystems.
   • Effects of invasive species: Outcompeting native species for resources and causing ecological imbalances.
3. Details of the Fish Species
   • Gambusia affinis (Mosquitofish):
     • Widely used for mosquito larvae control.
     • Banned in countries like Australia and New Zealand due to invasiveness.
   • Poecilia reticulata (Guppy):
     • Another species used for mosquito control.
     • Both species classified as invasive by the National Biodiversity Authority.
4. States Involved in Fish Release
   • Gambusia affinis: Released in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh.
   • Poecilia reticulata: Released primarily in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, and Odisha.
5. Ecological Impact
   • Disruption of native fish populations: Competing for food and habitat.
   • Potential decline or extinction of indigenous species.
   • Cascading effects on the entire aquatic ecosystem.