Some of these, in their larval stages, are predators in their own right. Others help to break down organic debris which has built up in the water system, thus releasing much needed nutrients. Again, all, at some stage of their life cycles, are prime food sources for a variety of wildlife found in any watershed. On another note, insects are great indicators of water quality and are often used by scientists to determine whether a watershed or a tributary is under environmental stress. The larval stages of these aquatic insects are relatively stationary, and therefore their numbers and the diversity of species observed are better indicators of water quality than the many fish species found in the same watershed.
Tires are a prime habitat for mosquitoes to breed.
In fact, there seems to be a few species which prefer them. Water collects, becomes stagnant and mosquitoes beeline towards them. Cleaning up old tires has been successful in affecting mosquito populations, but on a limited basis. For every tire removed, another one is put in its place. In some wetland areas, channels have been put in to drain the wetlands and create an undesirable environment.