What is the purpose of a larvicide?

The purpose of a larvicide is to kill insect larvae. Larvicides are specifically designed to target the immature life stage of insects, particularly mosquitoes and other pests, that can cause harm to the environment or public health. By effectively eliminating larvae, these substances help reduce the overall population of the species before they mature into adults, thereby preventing the spread of diseases and minimizing the nuisances associated with adult insect populations. This targeted approach is crucial in pest management strategies, especially in controlling vectors that transmit diseases.

The other choices do not align with the primary function of larvicides, as they either imply promoting growth, controlling mature insects, or enhancing plant growth, which are not the objectives of larvicides.