Which insecticide derived from plants is most frequently associated with mosquito control?

Pyrethrum is a naturally occurring insecticide derived from the dried flowers of Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium. It has been widely utilized in mosquito control due to its effectiveness against various insect pests. The active compounds, known as pyrethrins, act on the nervous system of insects, leading to paralysis and death. Pyrethrum works quickly and is known for its low toxicity to humans and pets when used correctly, making it a preferred choice for outdoor mosquito control applications.

Furthermore, pyrethrum's effectiveness as a contact insecticide makes it particularly suitable for efforts aimed at controlling adult mosquito populations. It is often used in a variety of formulations, including sprays and fogs, allowing for flexible application in various environments where mosquitoes may pose a concern.

Neem oil and pyrethrins also have roles in pest control, but they either have a more limited scope in that specific application or are less directly derived from the flowers of the chrysanthemum plant. Chlorpyrifos, on the other hand, is a synthetic pesticide that is not derived from plants and has fallen under significant regulatory scrutiny due to its toxicity and potential environmental impact, making it less favored in modern mosquito control practices.