Larvicidal action of Temephos and its environmental impact: A comprehensive review
Author(s): Archana Yadav, Neeraj Yadav, Sippy Singh and Alok Suman Sharma
Abstract: Temephos, an organophosphate larvicide, is extensively employed in India for mosquito control, specifically targeting mosquito larvae in standing water. Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria, and chikungunya pose substantial public health risks, Temephos application has become a crucial element of integrated vector management programs. The compound works by inhibiting the activity of cholinesterase, an essential enzyme in the nervous system of mosquito larvae, ultimately leading to their death. Studies conducted in various regions of India have shown its efficacy in reducing mosquito populations, particularly Aedes, Anopheles and Culex species, which are primary vectors for dengue, Chikungunya, malaria and Filaria respectively. However, the overuse of Temephos raises concerns about the development of resistance among mosquito populations, necessitating regular monitoring and the implementation of rotation with other control agents to maintain its effectiveness and ensure long-term vector management in the country. In this article we trying to analyze the larvicidal action of Temephos and its impact on aquatic organisms including nontargeting species and other terrestrial organism and its long terms ecological effect.