Invention Summary:
Rutgers scientists have developed an insecticide (e.g, pyriproxyfen) autodissemination station that topically contaminates oviposition-seeking mosquitoes in such a manner that the mosquitoes then bring the active control agent back to their breeding locations for control of container-inhabiting mosquitoes in urban environments, particularly the Asian tiger mosquito. The targeted mosquito is prevalent around the world, infesting all inhabited continents and thirty states, and is a carrier of more than twenty pathogens of public and veterinary health importance, including dengue, chikungunya and dog heartworm.
Features of the invention include an autodissemination mechanism, zero maintenance, single-season life, appropriate active agents and mechanism for attaching to mosquito, and high safety to humans. Biodegradable materials including peat moss, egg cartons, rice hulls, newspaper, straw, natural polymers, and water-soluble binders can be used in construction. An organic substrate (e.g., dried shredded oak leaves and brewer’s yeast) provides food for bacteria that produce the volatile cues that female container species use in selecting oviposition sites. The shape and features attract urban mosquitoes, yet do not permit egg laying.
As an insect-growth regulator, pyriproxifen is virtually nontoxic to birds and mammals. The ‘bait’ approach inherent to autodissemination is precisely targeted and therefore environmentally-friendlier than the broadcast spray of adulticides normally used.
Market Applications:
Applies to residential, commercial, landscape and small industry use where container mosquitoes pose a nuisance and threaten to public and veterinary health.
Advantages:
This method of mosquito management for the globally prevalent urban mosquitoes is inexpensive, biodegradable, nontoxic to birds and mammals, requires no maintenance, offers extended toxicant activity, and maximizes topical transfer of the toxicant by manipulating gravid female search behavior.
Intellectual Property & Development Status:
Patent Pending. A mosquito management system prototype has been constructed and tested.
