The choice of product and formulation depends on the type of habitat to be treated and the conditions at the time of treatment. Mosquito fish such as Gambusia have also been used in Colorado as alternatives to conventional insecticides. Adult control - in residential areas can be accomplished with a variety of insecticides based on chlorpyrifos, malathion, naled, permethrin, pyrethrins, and resmethrin. All of these chemicals have their drawbacks. While most of these active ingredients have some food crop registrations, applications over home gardens or other food crops could result in illegal residues.
Homeowners can control adults by treating shrubbery and other shaded areas with malathion.
Foggers labelled for flying insects may also be used, but will provide much less residual control. Tight screens, tightly-woven, light colored clothing, and repellents are also helpful. Avoid repeated use of the highly concentrated versions on children. It was recently tested in Texas with promising results. The label, however, cautions against applying Mosquito Beater in the event of rain.