Which statement about water management in mosquito control is true?

Which statement about water management in mosquito control is true?

• A. Water management can reduce mosquito production but is not needed if pesticides are used.
• B. Water management has no role in mosquito control.
• C. Water management only helps in drought conditions.
• D. Water management, by altering water levels or removing standing water, can reduce mosquito production without relying solely on insecticides.

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that mosquito control hinges on removing or altering the aquatic habitats where they lay eggs and larvae. Mosquito larvae need standing, still water to develop, so practices that drain, fill, or remove these water sources cut the number of places where mosquitoes can breed. When you reduce or eliminate standing water, you lower mosquito production without having to rely only on chemical controls. This is a key part of an integrated approach, and it can reduce the amount of insecticide needed and help prevent resistance.

That’s why the statement is true: altering water levels or removing standing water directly disrupts the larval habitat and decreases production. It’s not limited to drought conditions, and it doesn’t imply pesticides aren’t useful at all. It’s a complementary strategy that works alongside chemical controls and often reduces the overall need for them.