I guess I look at this from two different points of view.
First of all is the food chain. Juvenile bluegill have been proven to eat mosquito larvae, but when in combination with the gambusia the "escape" wigglers (mosquito larvae) are substantially reduced. Gambusia (very prolific) also provide a protein source for the small bluegill to feed on.
Second of all, but most important, is the fact that when it comes to mosquito control this day and age one can NEVER be too careful. One bite, especially with children, could introduce any variety of illnesses. As a mother this is a chance I am not willing to take (adults are at risk also). Minnows do not take alot away from the structural balance of the pond, so I only see them as a benefit.
If there is nothing much to lose (a few bucks?), and a heck of alot to gain (added protein for bluegill, reduction in mosquito populations, and reduction in the chances for potentially fatal mosquito bites) then I say go to for it.
As far as the "zapper" (I do not really like this term, because with our unit the bugs don't die until the fish eat them) is concerned I have seen a higher yield in weight than what you stated (average taken of more than one customer). Could it be that the bugs were killed (not wounded) and lost some volume (granted not alot) over a week's period? If the bugs were fried there would be a bit of a weight difference compared to if they just lost an arm before falling into the water still alive and full of fluids. Either way it would take alot to make up a 50 lb bag of feed, but think of the pleasures of night fishing without slapping the back of your neck every few minutes. Just a thought.
So I still say to stock the gambs, put up a light, and pellet feed. Let's grow some big fish!!!
Deb
