Predatory efficiency of Danio rerio (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) and Poecilia reticulata (Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae) as a biocontrol agent of Aedes larvae (Diptera: Culicidae) under the laboratory condition in Bangladesh

Abstract

Abstract Background Several viral infections are transmitted by members of the genus Aedes (Diptera: Culicidae). This study was conducted to evaluate the predatory potential of Danio rerio Zebrafish (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) and Poecilia reticulata Guppy (Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae) to control Aedes mosquito larvae and thereby manage dengue epidemics in a sustainable, and eco-friendly manner. Methods Under laboratory conditions, size-matched fish of each species were introduced into separate plastic containers containing 2 liters of tap water and 100 third instar larvae of Aedes. In addition, different prey combinations were used to assess the comparative predation potential of fish. Mosquito prey preferences were assessed using Manly’s preference index. Results Over 24-hours of laboratory conditions, a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the predatory efficiency of the studied fish species was reported where the predatory efficiency of D. rerio was higher than that of Po. reticulata. D. rerio showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher predation efficiency and prey preference for 2nd instar larvae and pupae of Aedes than Po. reticulata on the presence of alternative prey. Conclusions Based on predation efficiency and prey preference, this study suggests that D. rerio can be evaluated as an alternative species to Po. reticulata in biological control as a more eco-friendly, low cost, and sustainable method for the management of Aedes mosquitoes.