290 - A Novel and Innovative Mycelial Approach to Mosquito Control and Management

Abstract: This is a water movement system and method configured to eradicate and/or control mosquito populations that lay eggs in stagnant water environments. The system is comprised of a water pump configured to function in cooperation with an underwater mosquito attractant device. The mosquito attractant device is suitably constructed to generate carbon dioxide for attracting mosquitoes to a water extermination zone or trap. The underwater mosquito attractant device contains organisms such as mushroom mycelium for generating the carbon dioxide. Mosquitoes are attracted by the carbon dioxide generation device to reproduce in the water extermination zone, using the CO₂ enriched water to lay eggs, and grow larvae and pupae for the subject mosquitoes. A solar-powered water pump device with auxiliary power backup is configured to direct the flow of water from the water extermination zone toward filters of the water pump device to trap and kill mosquito progeny including eggs, larvae, and pupae. The system can be initially set up and left unattended for extended periods of time and will eradicate mosquito progeny on a daily basis. It is an environmental friendly and effective solution to incorporate into any integrated pest management program.