Volusia County residents annoyed by mosquitoes may be eligible for free mosquito-reducing fish provided by the County’s Mosquito Control Division. As part of its Integrated Pest Management program, the division uses Gambusia holbrooki, commonly known as “mosquito fish,” to control mosquito larvae biologically.
Upon receiving a request, the division will send a field inspector to assess the property. The inspector will check for the presence of mosquitoes or larvae in nearby bodies of water, such as flooded woodlands, abandoned or neglected swimming pools, ornamental ponds, and large bird baths. If the site is appropriate for the fish, staff will coordinate with the resident to schedule a time to distribute the fish on the property. The division can only distribute the fish on the property the requestor owns.
“We encourage residents to participate in this free program, as the mosquito fish can significantly reduce mosquito numbers in standing water,” said Mosquito Control Director Marcus McDonough. “It’s a practical method to manage mosquito populations and improve the quality of life and health on both their property and our community.”
These native fish, commonly found in permanent water bodies like ponds and lakes, help reduce mosquito populations by feeding on mosquito larvae.
To request an inspection and determine eligibility for receiving the fish, residents can fill out a request form on the Mosquito Control Division’s page at www.volusia.org/mosquito or contact the division at 386-424-2920 or vcmosquito@volusia.org.
