Most growth regulators do not harm other non-target species. Suffolk County Vector Control uses the class of pesticides in the saltwater-marshes, applying them by helicopter at the appropriate time. Larviciding Petroleum oils and mineral oils can be applied to the water. The resulting oil film over the the surface suffocates the eggs, larvae, and pupae. Rain, wind, waves may break up the oil film and makes it less effective.
Some oils are toxic to fish, plants or other organisms.
This method is not permitted in NY Adulticiding Adulticiding is space spraying for adult mosquitoes with insecticides. It is considered the least effective method since it does not control the source. It can only provide temporary relief and non selectively kills all insects. Adulticiding is considered only effective where mosquitoes pose a health threat such as an EEE outbreak. The active ingredient is Malathion which the manufacturer claims has become safer over the years as purity has improved.