What type of pesticide would best control larvae of mosquitoes?

The best choice for controlling the larvae of mosquitoes is a larvicide. Larvicides are specifically formulated to target the immature stages of insects, in this case, the larvae of mosquitoes. They work by disrupting the development of the larvae, preventing them from growing into adult mosquitoes that can breed and spread diseases.

Using a larvicide is effective because it addresses the problem at an early life stage, thereby reducing the population before they can become adults. This approach is particularly important in mosquito control strategies, where targeting the larval stage can significantly decrease the incidence of adult mosquitoes in the environment.

In contrast, adulticides would specifically target adult mosquitoes and are not effective against the larval stage. Insecticides could be broader and may also target various insect stages, but they are not primarily formulated for larvae. Herbicides are completely unrelated, as they are designed to control plants rather than insects. Therefore, for the specific purpose of controlling mosquito larvae, a larvicide is the correct and most effective choice.