FROM THRESHOLD TO TERMINATION: EVALUATING THE LETHAL LIMITS OF BORIC ACID IN MOSQUITO LARVAL CONTROL

Malaria has been a known global health burden, particularly in regions where resistance to traditional insecticides is prevalent. This study investigated the effect of boric acid as larvicides targeting mosquito larvae. Methodologically, dimethyl sulfoxide added in a sample bottle containing boric acid to dissolve it and mixed with deionized water to form a stock solution of 100 µg/ml, with serial dilutions to lower concentrations of 50 µg/ml, 25 µg/ml, 12.5 µg/ml and 6.25 µg/ml. The mortality rates were assessed at 24 and 48 hours, revealing a significant time-dependent increase in efficacy. The lethal concentration 50 (lc50) value decreased from greater than 73 µg/ml at 24 hours to 50 µg/ml at 48 hours, indicating enhanced effectiveness over prolonged exposure. Mortality rates exhibited a concentration-dependent response, with higher concentrations leading to greater larval mortality. The study highlights the potential of boric acid as a promising alternative or complement to conventional larvicides, especially in the context of rising insecticide resistance. The findings suggest that boric acid could play a significant role in integrated vector management (IVM) strategies aimed at controlling mosquito populations and reducing the transmission of vector-borne diseases. Further research is recommended to explore its mechanisms of action, develop effective formulations, and assess its performance in field conditions.