<![CDATA[Introduction: Vector-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria, chikungunya, and filariasis remain major public health problems. In Indonesia, the Larva Free Index (LFI) in 2019 was 79.2%, below the national target (>95%), with 138,127 dengue cases reported. Biological control using natural predators is a potential strategy to reduce mosquito larvae populations. This study aimed to compare the predation ability of betta fish (Betta splendens) and golden cichlid (Melanochromis auratus) against Aedes aegypti larvae. Methods: This quasi-experimental study used a completely randomized design (CRD). Observations were conducted with 18 replications. Data were analyzed using an Independent t-test with a 95% confidence level (α = 0.05). Result: Betta fish consumed an average of 20 larvae per hour, with a total predation rate of 96.4%. Golden cichlid consumed an average of 18 larvae per hour, with a total predation rate of 80.6%. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.05), indicating higher predation efficiency in Betta fish. Conclusion: Betta fish demonstrated significantly greater effectiveness as a biological control agent against Aedes aegypti larvae compared to golden cichlid. This species has strong potential for application in community-based mosquito control programs.]]>
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