Sun Nov 23 14:48:48 UTC 2025: ## Tiruchi Deploys Mosquito Fish to Combat Monsoon-Related Disease
TIRUCHI, INDIA – November 23, 2025 – The Tiruchi Corporation is intensifying its efforts to control mosquito populations and prevent outbreaks of dengue and malaria during the monsoon season by releasing Gambusia affinis, commonly known as mosquito fish, into wells and public water fountains across the city.
The initiative, focusing particularly on Zones I and V, aims to biologically control mosquito larvae, with each fish capable of consuming hundreds of larvae. Officials report the fish are being released in areas where significant larval presence has been detected, utilizing a ratio of two males and eight females per well. The fish, known to live up to a year, are sourced from a fish farm in Thiruvarankulam, Pudukottai district, and bred in a well in Somarasampettai.
According to a senior health official, mosquito fish are preferred over oil balls, which can contaminate well water. The corporation is also providing the fish in small containers to residents who request them and will identify hotspots in other zones for future deployments.
Beyond the mosquito fish initiative, the corporation has deployed 250 domestic breeding checkers and 630 sanitation workers to conduct regular source reduction drives. These efforts include clearing stagnant water, desilting drains, and spraying larvicides in vulnerable areas. Fogging and water chlorination are also being conducted regularly.
Furthermore, the city is operating 37 to 45 fever camps and a mobile medical unit covers four vulnerable areas daily. Approximately 350 litres of nilavembu kashayam, a traditional herbal drink believed to boost immunity, are being distributed each day.
First Piper 