Laboratory investigation of inhabitants of temporary waters: will crustaceans consume mosquito larvae?

Temporary waters that occur after rainfall events and spring snow melt support macro-invertebrates that survive in disiccation-resistant eggs and complete their life cycles in a fish free environment. Among these organisms, floodwater mosquitoes capable of transmitting disease to humans and other mammals may flourish. A number of crustaceans also utilize this life history and may occur in the same temporary waters.  We designed a laboratory exercise to investigate predation by crustaceans on mosquito larvae. Students were provided with four types of crustaceans, Culex sp larvae, and containers to view predatory behavior and record their findings. Some of the crustaceans consume mosquito larvae while others do not.  The data were compiled for the class for later analysis. The initial laboratory work can be concluded in one hour long session. Follow up analysis and write ups were assigned as an out of class exercise for students. Students must interpret the results to determine whether crustaceans can be used as biological control agents for mosquito larvae.