P2 - Biodegradable Vector Control System

Abstract: The Biodegradable, Visual, Olfactory, and Chemical (BVOC) device for vector control was tested for its ability to attract and control mosquitoes, meet DoD thermal and camouflage criteria, and applicability for deployment by air and hand. The BVOC device is composed of non-toxic biodegradable composite materials that can be formed into various containers and sizes. The BVOC, with pesticides can be deployed from the air, by air gun, and by hand. The BVOC can be camouflaged to match the military operational environment and incorporates low thermal detectability, and incorporates biodegradable, visual, olfactory, and chemical components to attract and control mosquito populations and potentially other vectors. The BVOC offer s several advantages over current technologies; 1) reduces the impact on the environment, 2) targets adult and larvae mosquitoes with less pesticide ,as it is retained in a bait station and reduces impact on non-target organisms, 3) can be used for collection of mosquito species, 4) reduces risk to military personnel by blending into the environment (visual and IR) and eliminates the need to refill or collect the device. The device is designed for safety of military personnel and requires no specialized training. The BVOC can be used for control and surveillance of mosquitoes and other vectors from tree level to ground level and has both military and civilian applications. The BVOC research was funded by the US Army SBIR # W81XWH19C0091.