Carnivorous Fish Gambusia and Disease Control in India

Introduction:
Gambusia is a species of small freshwater fish that is known for its carnivorous nature. It has been introduced in lakes, ponds, and other water bodies in India to control a deadly disease by feeding on the larvae of certain insects. In this case, the correct answer is option 'C' - Gambusia feeds on the larvae of Anopheles mosquitoes, which are known to transmit diseases such as malaria.

Explanation:
To understand why Gambusia is effective in controlling the disease, let's break down the answer further:

1. Carnivorous Fish Gambusia:
Gambusia, also known as mosquito fish, is a small fish species that primarily feeds on small invertebrates, including insect larvae. It is highly adaptable and able to survive in a wide range of aquatic habitats. Gambusia has been introduced in various parts of India to control the population of disease-carrying mosquitoes.

2. Anopheles Mosquitoes:
Anopheles mosquitoes are known to be carriers of diseases such as malaria, which is a major health concern in many parts of India. The female Anopheles mosquito requires a blood meal to reproduce, and in the process, it can transmit parasites that cause malaria to humans.

3. Larval Stage of Anopheles Mosquito:
Before becoming adult mosquitoes, Anopheles mosquitoes go through a larval stage in water bodies such as lakes and ponds. During this stage, they are vulnerable to predation by other organisms, including Gambusia.

4. Feeding Habits of Gambusia:
Gambusia feeds on a variety of small invertebrates, including mosquito larvae. It is particularly efficient in consuming the larvae of Anopheles mosquitoes due to its adaptability and predatory nature. By consuming the larvae, Gambusia helps to reduce the population of disease-carrying mosquitoes in the water bodies where it is introduced.

5. Disease Control:
By introducing Gambusia in lakes, ponds, and other water bodies, the population of Anopheles mosquito larvae can be significantly reduced. This, in turn, helps to control the spread of diseases such as malaria, as the number of disease-carrying mosquitoes is decreased.

Conclusion:
The introduction of Gambusia, a carnivorous fish species, in lakes, ponds, and other water bodies in India has proven to be an effective method of controlling disease transmission. By preying on the larvae of Anopheles mosquitoes, Gambusia helps to reduce the population of disease-carrying mosquitoes, ultimately contributing to disease control efforts in the country.