Control of aedes aegypti breeding in desert coolers and tires by use of Bacillus thuringiensis var. Israelensis formulation.

Three different formulations of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti) were evaluated for their efficacy against immature Aedes aegypti in desert coolers and tires. Three formulations, viz., VectoBac tablets, VectoBac granules, and Bacticide powder, at the application rate of 0.75, 2, and 1 g per cooler, respectively, and VectoBac tablets at 0.75 and 0.375 g per tire, were evaluated. In coolers and tires, 100% reduction in the abundance of late larval instars of Ae. aegypti was observed for a period of 2 and 3 wk, respectively. The possibility of using tablets and capsules filled with Bti granules and powder formulation by individuals or communities for control of Ae. aegypti breeding has been discussed in view of the increasing outbreaks of dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever in India. Use of these formulations over conventional methods is better and more user-friendly.