Foshan Releases Mosquito-Eating Fish to Combat Dengue and Chikungunya

In an effort to control the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and chikungunya, the city of Foshan in Guangdong province has released large numbers of mosquito-eating fish into local parks. Chikungunya has significantly affected the area, with over 4,000 cases reported, prompting the city's health officials to take action.

Zhang Huabin, deputy director of the urban management and law enforcement bureau in Foshan's Chancheng district, indicated that this initiative marks the first time the Gambusia affinis species has been utilized for mosquito control in the city. The young fish consume mosquito eggs and larvae, which is a key strategy to reduce the mosquito population that can transmit diseases.

Statistics suggest that each larvivorous fish fry consumes between 100 and 200 mosquito larvae daily. Officials from the district’s urban management department anticipate that the introduction of these fish will lead to a more than 60 percent reduction in mosquito larvae density within three months.

While the effectiveness of this biological control method may take some time to fully realize, authorities emphasize its environmentally friendly and sustainable nature compared to traditional chemical approaches to pest control. This effort not only addresses public health concerns but also preserves ecological balance.