Ohio Vector Control (Category 10d) Practice Exam

Managing mosquito habitats is crucial for reducing their populations and the diseases they may transmit. The correct approach involves habitat management by removing stagnant water. Mosquitoes require standing water to breed, and areas where water is not moving or not draining properly can become ideal breeding grounds. By actively removing sources of stagnant water, such as clogged drains, puddles, or containers that collect rainwater, the available breeding sites diminish significantly.

This approach effectively disrupts the mosquito life cycle, preventing larvae from maturing into adult mosquitoes and thereby reducing their numbers in the area. This method also encourages better water management practices, which can contribute to overall environmental health.

In contrast, increasing water levels in ponds can inadvertently create more breeding sites for mosquitoes. Using chemical fertilizers may promote plant growth, but it does not directly address mosquito habitats. Similarly, encouraging dense vegetation growth can provide shade and cool areas, but it might also create additional hiding spots for adult mosquitoes and potentially retain moisture, further contributing to stagnant water environments. Thus, effective mosquito management always focuses on eliminating stagnant water sources.