Invention Summary:
Container mosquitoes are prime public and veterinary health threats. They are the primary vectors of mosquito-borne viruses such as chikungunya, dengue, and zika which can cause illness among the humans. Stagnant water collected in small, squalid spaces form the habitat of these container mosquitoes. Conventional control methods focus on treating or eliminating larval habitats. However, the limitations of traditional insecticide-based strategies, particularly imprecise habitat treatments and the development of insecticide resistance, have resulted in significant efforts to develop alternative eco-friendly methods.
Rutgers scientists have developed a special pyriproxyfen autodissemination station that topically contaminates oviposition-seeking mosquitoes which then carry enough larvicides to destroy larval habitats in urban environments. This technology has a crafted PPF-formulation and an extended gravid attractant delivering a season long-lasting activity with minimum maintenance. The shape and features attract urban mosquitoes, yet do not permit egg laying.
As an insect-growth regulator, pyriproxyfen 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.
Advantages:
- Inexpensive method, refillable and require minimal maintenance
- Non-toxic to birds and mammals
- Maximizes topical transfer of the toxicant by manipulating gravid female search behavior
- Environment friendly
Market Applications:
To combat and control the breeding of container mosquitoes, the autodissemination station can be set up in places such as:
- Residential & Commercial landscape
- Small Industries
- Public places
Intellectual Property & Development Status: US Patent 10,258,027 B2 (61/393,681; 61/490,449; PCT/US11/56106; 13/863,359; 15/050,439). Available for licensing and/or search collaboration. Please contact marketingbd@research.rutgers.edu
