Design and evaluation of an efficient mosquito trap

Vector mosquito control is important for preventing and controlling mosquito-borne infectious diseases. This study designed and developed a mosquito killer (MK) with a specific light wavelength, simulated human body temperature, human odor, and a photocatalyst to stimulate CO₂ based on the physiological characteristics and ecological habits of mosquitoes. We tested the trapping effect of individual and multiple mosquito-trapping elements of the MK through two-way selection experiments and compared them with several commercial mosquito traps.

The 365 nm wavelength MK was significantly more effective than the 395 nm (Cx. quinquefasciatus: 62.00% vs. 34.25%; Ae. albopictus: 50.75% vs 45.00%, An. sinensis: 49.75% vs 39.00%). Mosquitoes captured by the MK with heaters at 365 nm were significantly more than those captured by the MK without heaters at 365 nm. A trap with a 365 nm wavelength, heating element, and lure showed significantly better capture effectiveness than MK with a 365 nm wavelength, heating element, but without lure (Cx. quinquefasciatus: 67.00% vs. 29.75%, Ae. albopictus: 60.25% vs 36.25%, An. sinensis: 49.75% vs 39.75%). The coated photocatalyst trap with a 365 nm wavelength, heating element, and lure showed significantly better capture effectiveness than the trap without coating (Cx. quinquefasciatus: 54.25% vs. 42.50%; Ae. albopictus: 53.50% vs 44.00%, An. sinensis: 50.00% vs 41.25%). This trap demonstrated a significantly better capture advantage for Cx. quinquefasciatus and Ae. albopictus compared to the three commercial products.

The developed mosquito trap with multiple attractant factors significantly enhanced the capture effectiveness of common mosquitoes. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.