SeaGrant San Diego - Mosquito FIsh

Vector Control is in the Kearny Mesa area of San Diego at 9325 Hazard Way.

From I-15, head west on Clairemont Mesa Boulevard. From Highway 163, head east on Clairemont Mesa Boulevard. Turn north from Clairemont Mesa Boulevard onto Ruffin Road, which is the first big intersection west of I-15.

Go to just north of the bottom of the hill, turn left onto Hazard Way, come uphill and Vector Control is at number 9325. Remember to call ahead to see if fish are available:

(858) 694-2888
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mosquito fish can be obtained from the Vector Control and Surveillance Division of the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health. Call ahead to be sure they have fish on the day you wish to pick them up (phone number is listed below).

You may also visit their web page entitled "Defense from Mosquitoes: Mosquito Fish (Gambusia affinis).

Mosquito larvae breathe at the water's surface, so they are found near the surface. Thus, surface area determines how many fish you will need. Vector Control estimates that 12 fish will take care of a pond 6 feet by 8 feet (surface area of 48 feet). So, if your pond has twice that surface area, get 24 fish, if pond has three times that surface area, get 36 fish, and so forth.

You will need to bring a container big enough to hold the number of fish you need without crowding them. Be sure to bring a lid for the container.