Abstract
Background: Mosquitoes transmit serious human pathogens, causing millions of deaths every year. The quest for better mosquito control is an endless effort almost throughout the world. Chemical control is a leading method implemented in vector control because of its quick outcome, especially in epidemics. The development of resistance to chemical insecticides resulted in rebounding vectorial capacity. Plants may be alternative sources for mosquito control agents. This study aimed to investigate the toxic effect of the aqueous extract of Acacia nilotica fruits on mosquito larvae under laboratory conditions. Methods: A true experimental study was done to find out the toxic effect of the aqueous extract of Acacia nilotica on mosquito larvae. An aqueous extract from fruits was powdered and strained and was used as a stock solution. Serial concentrations of .0125% up to 2% were tested on mosquito larvae. The larvae were subjected to the extract for 24hrs and the Lc(50) was obtained. The trial was repeated three times and the average was obtained. Results: The mortality rate was found to be ranging between 75% and 100%. The average Lc(50) for the three trials was found to be 0.004 %. Almost mosquito larvae were Culex species. Conclusion: The aqueous extract of Acacia nilotica could be useful in controlling mosquito larvae, as it is extremely toxic for them. It is recommended that purify the active substance responsible for the toxicity of mosquito larvae and to do more research on the plant extracts in water and other solvents as well as obtaining the plant from different soils.