What is a critical factor for effective larviciding?

Reaching standing water where larvae exist is critical for effective larviciding because this is the primary habitat where mosquito larvae develop. Larvicides are specifically designed to target these immature stages of mosquitoes, and their effectiveness hinges on their ability to be present in the right locations. If the larvicides do not reach the areas where larvae are present—typically standing water sources—then they cannot exert their intended effect, and the population of adult mosquitoes will continue to grow.

While factors like frequency of applications, application volume, and the choice of active ingredients do play roles in overall efficacy, they are secondary to the essential need to deliver the larvicide directly to the site of larval development. Effective mosquito control programs prioritize identifying and treating these breeding sites to ensure that the larvicides reach their targets.