Jun 07, 2013#12013-06-07T18:28+00:00Hi. Im a new member here and have a new pond (up and running for about 1 month now). Though I will be posting more questions soon, my main concern right now is that I know for sure I have mosquito larvae and would like to know what kind of fish would be best for eating them and how many I would need. I was going to get mosquito fish at first, but I’ve read really scary stories about how quickly they can spread and take over a small pond, making it very hard to get rid of them. I want my pond to have beautiful goldfish in it, not 1000 mosquito fish. I now know a little more about these rosy red minnows. Are they just as good (or close to it) at eating mosquito larvae? My pond is about 3000 gallons and 150 square feet. ft. of surface area. I’m scared to death that our back yard will soon have a million mosquitoes, my wife says. Any help ASAP would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!! Scott—.
Jun 07, 2013#22013-06-07T22:58+00:00Welcome to the forum! If you plan on getting goldfish, they will take care of the mosquito larvae (at least smaller goldfish will). The smaller goldfish can get along with rosy red minnows. Bigger goldfish may eat them. Rosy reds are excellent at eating mosquito larvae but your pond is huge so youd need many. They are good breeders though. Alternatively, orfe are bigger fish that can also eat mosquito larvae and will even jump and eat adults. There are a lot of mosquito fish, but the ones I had all died in one winter, so they’re not as hardy as some people think. The problem with them is that they are bullies. They will eat mosquito larvae but also love to eat amphibians and fish eggs and fry. They are also known to rip fins on other fish sometimes if things are crowded. Plus, youll never get them out of the pond once theyre in. Adding some Bt to the pond until you get the right mix of fish (species and sizes) would be a more sensible thing to do than to freak out. It has mosquito bits, dunks, and even a liquid made by Microbe-Lift. All of these contain liquid Bt, a bacteria that stops mosquito larvae from molting, killing them. See.
Mosquitoes are a nuisance that no one wants around especially with their ability to spread dangerous diseases. One of the best ways to control mosquito populations naturally is to introduce fish that will readily eat the mosquito larvae in ponds or other water features. But what fish eat mosquito larvae? Let’s explore some top fish species that will help eliminate these pests.
Why Target Mosquito Larvae
Mosquitoes have four life stages – egg, larva, pupa, and adult. During the larval stage, mosquitoes live in water and feed on microorganisms and organic matter. This makes them vulnerable to predation by fish and other aquatic life.
By introducing fish that specifically target mosquito larvae you can break their lifecycle and drastically reduce the number of adult mosquitoes that ever take flight. Controlling populations at the larval stage is an effective and sustainable mosquito management strategy.
Best Fish Species For Mosquito Control
Many fish will consume mosquito larvae, but some are much more effective hunters than others. When selecting fish for mosquito control, it’s ideal to choose fish that:
- Actively hunt mosquito larvae (rather than incidentally eat them)
- Thrive in the climate and water conditions of your area
- Are suitable for your pond or water garden’s size
- Won’t overpopulate and take over the ecosystem
With those criteria in mind, here are some top fish picks for targeting mosquito larvae:
1. Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis)
As their name implies, mosquitofish have a voracious appetite for mosquito larvae, hence making them a prime natural mosquito control candidate. A single mosquitofish can devour 100-500 mosquito larvae per day!
These small freshwater fish are native to the southeastern United States and are hardy in varying water temperatures. They are low-maintenance and undemanding pond fish. However, their rapid reproduction rate means populations need monitoring.
2. Guppies (Poecilia reticulata)
Though small in stature (under 2.5 inches) guppies make up for it with their big appetite for mosquito larvae. They are capable of consuming almost their entire body weight in larvae daily.
Native to northeast South America and the Caribbean islands, guppies prefer warm tropical climates but can withstand cooler temperatures. Their vibrant coloration also makes them pleasing ornamental fish. Monitor reproduction in outdoor ponds.
3. Minnows (Phoxinus phoxinus)
Minnows are small freshwater fish that feed heavily on mosquito larvae and other insect life in ponds. Studies show fathead minnows to be an effective biological control agent against mosquito populations.
There are many minnow varieties suitable for mosquito control, such as western mosquitofish, goldfish minnows, and lake chubs. Restocking minnows may needed be as populations fluctuate.
4. Golden Orfe (Leuciscus idus)
This vivid orange colored cold water fish has a appetite for mosquito larvae and other insect pests. Golden orfe grows up to 20 inches long and prefers swimming in schools.
Fun fact – adult golden orfe have been observed leaping out of the water to eat flying mosquitoes! They are Hardy, peaceful pond fish perfect for combating mosquitoes.
5. Bluegills (Lepomis macrochirus)
A popular pond fish across North America, bluegills actively hunt down mosquito larvae and other aquatic insects as a main food source. These small freshwater sunfish thrive in ponds and lakes, especially in warmer regions.
Other sunfish like green sunfish, orangespotted sunfish and redear sunfish also make good mosquito hunters. Populations can grow, so consider adding predatory bass as a check.
6. Koi & Goldfish (Cyprinus carpio, Carassius auratus)
While not actively hunting larvae, koi and goldfish will consume mosquito larvae in ponds as part of their omnivorous diet. For best results, underfeed them a bit so they forage naturally.
Comets, shubunkins and darker colored goldfish blend into ponds well to find larvae. Smaller fancy goldfish and koi fry can maneuver better to snatch up larvae. Good for larger established ponds.
Bonus Mosquito-Eating Species
- Platies
- Bettas
- Killifish
- Catfish
- Sticklebacks
Pond & Fish Management Tips
When selecting fish for mosquito control:
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Match fish to climate and pond conditions (size, depth, etc)
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Research legal status of non-native fish in your state
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Avoid mixing sizes as larger fish may prey on smaller
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Monitor populations and remove excess when needed
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Provide fish hides from predators like herons and raccoons
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Introduce native fish species if connected to natural waters
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Pair mosquito fish with guppies, minnows and small goldfish
Introducing natural mosquito predators like fish to backyard ponds, water gardens and other aquatic habitats is an eco-friendly way to dramatically reduce mosquito populations. Targeting the vulnerable larval stage interrupts the mosquito lifecycle so fewer adults ever emerge.
While many fish eat mosquito larvae opportunistically, those highlighted here actively hunt them down. Focus on selecting fish adapted to your climate that won’t overpopulate or require much care. Then let them devour those nuisance larvae and enjoy your yard mosquito-free!
Which fish do you use for natural mosquito control? Share your recommendations and tips in the comments section below!
Mosquito Larvae: Live Fish Food
What fish eat mosquitoes?
3. Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) The bluegill fish is known for its distinct color way and it’s stripes that line the top of its body. Bluegill is another famous mosquito-eating fish that makes a great addition to your pond. They are found in freshwater sources all over the United States and have even started appearing in other parts of the world.
Can goldfish eat mosquito larvae?
Yes, goldfish can eat the larvae of mosquitoes. Among other breeds, goldfish, which is called Shubunkin, can eat the larvae of mosquitoes. Also, most of them can quickly consume the larvae of mosquitoes. There is dark color in comets and shubunkins, and eating larvae makes them capable of better blending in their surroundings.
Do pond fish eat mosquito larvae?
Yes, simply by using your pond fish! Here we will discuss a few species of pond fish that consume mosquito larvae and help keep these vampiric pests at bay! Shubunkin goldfish, among other breeds, will eat mosquito larvae. Public domain.
Do catfish eat mosquito larvae?
Yes, catfish eat the larvae of mosquitoes. If these fish eat the larvae of mosquitoes, the life cycle of mosquitoes also gets disturbed. Catfish also balance the mosquito population and prevent the mosquito from becoming adults. Catfish is the most effective predator of mosquito larvae.