Use of alkaline detergent for washing clothes is a non deliberate cultural practice with anti mosquito effect. Mosquito larva cannot survive in alkaline water. MOSQUITO CONTROL Gambusia affinis - larvicidal fish Anti larval - Source reduction (elimination of mosquito breeding grounds), use of larvicides (surface films - mineral oils, stomach poisons - Paris Green, contact poisons), biological agents like fungi, nematodes and fish (eg: larvicidal fish - Gambusia affinis) Anti adult - Insecticides like DDT (organochlorine), Malathion (organophosphate) and pyrethroids for space sprays and residual sprays. Genetically modified adults are also used. Prevention of mosquito bites - Bed nets, mosquito repellents, insect screens for homes. Ref : Park's Textbook of Preventive medicine