Potential of the ornamental fish, Trichopodus trichopterus (Pallus, 1770) in controlling Culex larvae under laboratory condition

The three spot gourami, Trichopodus trichopterus, an ornamental fish, consumed significantly more larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus than Culex quinquefasciatus pupae and Chironomus ramosus larvae irrespective of whether those were offered as prey separately or together in paired combination. This fish predates significantly more number of prey during day time and has significantly higher dietary preference index for Culex quinquefasciatus larvae as compared to Culex quinquefasciatus pupae or Chironomus ramosus larvae. It appears to a very efficient biocontrol agent at least under laboratory condition.