The effect of Azolla on mosquito breeding.

Surface agents to smother mosquito breeding sites have been used extensively for mosquito larval control. Such agents range from oil films and chemical monolayers, to expanded polystyrene beads(1,2). Here, Lu Bao-lin discusses the use of Azolla - a floating fern - for a similar effect. The fern has the additional advantage of providing a useful source of green manure as a crop fertilizer.