Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: The article discusses the unintended consequences of introducing mosquitofish, specifically Gambusia affinis and Gambusia holbrooki.
- Initially introduced in the 1960s as a biological control method to combat mosquito-borne diseases, these fish have proliferated beyond their intended habitats, causing severe ecological and environmental problems.
- Mosquitofish, originally from the U.S., was introduced in India to prey on mosquito larvae. However, their adaptability and high tolerance for changing environmental conditions led to their widespread distribution, displacing and preying on native fauna.
- Despite the World Health Organization’s withdrawal of the recommendation for Gambusia as a mosquito control agent in 1982 and its designation as an invasive alien species by the National Biodiversity Authority of the Government of India in 2018, both government and non-governmental organizations continue to release these fish for mosquito control.
