These vector control methods are more demanding in terms of local technical expertise, and they are much less universally applicable than insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS). However, in particular local situations they may greatly enhance the effectiveness of interventions, especially in areas of low transmission. Examples of biological control is the use of larvivorous fishes and the use of bacterial larvicides such as Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis in still waters where mosquito larvae breed. Environmental management may include where and when feasible intermittent dry-wet irrigation of rice-fields whereby mosquito larvae are killed when the rice fields are dry.

Guideline specifications for bacterial larvicides for public health use, WHO, 28-30 April, 1999