Sticky Trap Design Considerations for Entrapping Bed Bugs

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Pest Management

Background:

• Limited evidence exists on the efficacy of sticky traps for monitoring bed bugs (Cimex lectularius).
• Surface characteristics of monitoring devices can influence insect behavior and capture rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of surface roughness around sticky trap adhesives on bed bug behavior and entrapment.
• To evaluate a novel sticky trap design for field monitoring of bed bugs and German cockroaches (Blattela germanica).

Main Methods:

• Assays were conducted using acetate discs with varying surface roughness averages (Ra) to assess bed bug attraction and entrapment.
• Field testing of a sticky trap featuring a smooth surface surrounding the adhesive was performed in apartments with known pest activity.

Main Results:

• Smoother surfaces (lower Ra) around the adhesive increased bed bug entrapment.
• Bed bugs were less likely to traverse smoother surfaces.
• The smooth-surface sticky trap successfully captured bed bugs and detected German cockroach infestations in field trials.

Conclusions:

• Sticky trap designs incorporating smooth surfaces around the adhesive can enhance bed bug monitoring.
• These traps show potential for monitoring both bed bugs and German cockroaches, offering a dual-pest detection capability.