Research Entomologist USDA-ARS, CMAVE Gainesville, Florida, United States
Abstract: Recently there has been an increased emphasis on adding new tools to our mosquito management toolbox due to an increase in the development of insecticide resistance, a lack of new pesticide products, and a reluctance to use topical repellents. Spatial repellents have been suggested as a potential tool. This presentation will provide an introduction to a symposium which will provide an overview of the current status and potential future role that spatial repellents might play in future mosquito/vector population management strategies. A brief history of spatial use will be provided. This will include current methods for evaluating candidate compounds/products under laboratory, semi-field and field conditions. Current concepts of what constitutes a spatial repellent and a generalized definition for this category of compounds will be provided. While synthetic pyrethroids have been used in many currently available commercial products, there will be a presentation on the potential future use of essential oils as spatial repellents.
