What Are Mosquito Fish?
Mosquito Fish are small freshwater fish that eat mosquito larvae. They are one of the most effective and natural methods of controlling mosquitoes.
Mosquito Larvae
Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water sources, such as bird baths and neglected pools. When these eggs hatch, they become mosquito larvae. Larvae can mature into biting adult mosquitoes in as few as 5 days. Under ideal conditions, mosquitoes can complete their life cycle from egg to adult in as few as 7 days.
Controlling Mosquito Larvae
Controlling mosquito larvae is important because it limits the number of adult mosquitoes in the area. Adult female mosquitoes bite humans and animals and can spread diseases such as West Nile virus, malaria, and several types of encephalitis. By controlling mosquito larvae, you can lessen your chances of getting bit by mosquitoes that spread these diseases.
Using Mosquito Fish
Mosquito Fish are ideal for controlling mosquito larvae in backyard ponds, birdbaths, fountains, animal troughs, unused swimming pools, and other standing water sources. Mosquito Fish should never be placed in any natural habitat such as lakes, streams, rivers, or creeks. They are greedy eaters, so by placing them into natural waterways, they may wipe out natural species and disrupt the balance of life.
Caring For Mosquito Fish
When you get your fish home, let them get used to their new home. Keep the fish in their container and place it directly into the pond for 15 minutes. Wait until the pond and the container's water are the same temperature. Then release the fish into the pond. Once in their new home, Mosquito Fish need little or no care.
Feeding
During warm months Mosquito Fish usually do not need to be fed. However, you must feed the fish if the water source does not have any plant life. Give them fish food flakes, and feed them as much as they can eat in 5-minutes twice a day.
Living Conditions
Mosquito Fish can tolerate water temperatures between 33oF and 104oF, but like temperatures around 80oF. They like water with a pH between 6.5 and 8.0. Keep chlorine, garden insect sprays, and yard chemicals out of their water.
Living With Other Fish
Mosquito Fish are compatible with most ornamental pond fish. They live best with fish their own size, as larger fish may eat the Mosquito Fish. If the Mosquito Fish are living with larger fish, they need hiding places like rocks and vegetation.
Reproduction
Mosquito Fish give birth to live young, rather than laying eggs. Each fish lives for about 1 year, and begins eating mosquito larvae as soon as it is born. Mosquito Fish do not over breed and maintain population levels that fit their environment.
How Many Fish Do I Need?
- Small sources, such as fountains or troughs: 2-3 fish
- Ponds with surface area less than 200 square feet: 3-5 fish
- Larger sources: 1 fish for every 20
Where To Get Mosquito Fish
Mosquito Fish may be picked up free of charge at different locations throughout San Diego County. Please click here or call San Diego County's Vector Control Program at (858) 694-2888 on information or the location nearest you.
