Which action would be classified as a mechanical control method for mosquitoes?

• A. Replacing weather stripping on a door.
• B. Filling in low-lying areas with dirt.
• C. Depositing larvacide in stagnant water areas.
• D. Placing Gambusia minnows in the base pond.

Answer: (A)

Mechanical control methods use physical means to reduce mosquito contact or prevent them from entering spaces. Replacing weather stripping on a door creates a tight seal that acts as a barrier, blocking mosquitoes from slipping indoors and biting people. It’s a purely physical measure, not about killing mosquitoes or altering their habitat. The other actions involve changing the environment to reduce breeding (filling in low-lying areas) or using chemicals (larvacide) or biological agents (Gambusia minnows), which are not mechanical controls.