Which species is a commonly used predator for controlling mosquito larvae?

Gambusia affinis, commonly known as the western mosquitofish, is recognized as an effective biological control agent for mosquito larvae. This species is small, hardy, and highly efficient at consuming mosquito larvae in standing water. By introducing Gambusia affinis into bodies of water where mosquito breeding occurs, populations of biting mosquitoes can be significantly reduced, providing a natural method of pest control.

This approach is beneficial since it helps minimize the reliance on chemical insecticides, thereby reducing potential environmental impacts and harm to non-target organisms. The other species listed, such as Culex pipiens (common house mosquito), Anopheles gambiae (known for transmitting malaria), and Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito), do not serve as predators of mosquito larvae. Instead, they are all species of mosquitoes themselves, often contributing to the mosquito population rather than helping to control it.