Which of the following is an effective way to reduce mosquito populations?

Eliminating stagnant water sources is an effective way to reduce mosquito populations because mosquitoes require standing water to breed. Stagnant water acts as a breeding ground for mosquito larvae, supporting their life cycle. By removing or managing these water sources—such as tire swings, clogged gutters, bird baths, and any containers that can collect rainwater—you effectively disrupt their breeding cycle, leading to a significant decline in the mosquito population.

In contrast, increasing standing water or encouraging breeding in stagnant water would directly support mosquito reproduction, allowing populations to flourish. Spreading food waste would not address the issue; instead, it could create additional problems by attracting other pests or decomposers that may further complicate sanitation efforts. Thus, managing stagnant water is crucial in prevention strategies.