Technology ID
TAB-2718
Entangling/Entrapping Synthetic Setae for Control of Insects and Other Pests
E-Numbers
E-175-2013-0
Lead Inventor
Wirtz, Robert (CDC)
Applications
Therapeutics
Research Materials
Occupational Safety and Health
Non-Medical Devices
Medical Devices
Diagnostics
Consumer Products
Therapeutic Areas
Infectious Disease
Development Stages
Prototype
Development Status
Prototype
Lead IC
CDC
ICs
CDC
In nature, some beetle larvae possess specialized barbed hastate setae that serve as an entanglement defense mechanism and incapacitate other insects. CDC researchers have developed synthetic setae for control and entrapment of insects and other pests. While smaller synthetic setae can trap mosquitoes and small insects, larger “macro” setae can be used for entrapment of bats, rodents, etc. Once used, the setae can be "reset" by a vigorous shaking of the fabric. This solution to pest control would be long-lasting and non-toxic, with the additional benefit of avoiding the evolutionary selection of pesticide resistant organisms.
Commercial Applications
- Insect and pest control agents
- Population sampling and monitoring
Competitive Advantages
- Fine entanglement setae can be used anywhere insects congregate, including mosquito bed netting, resting boxes, curtains, or wall linings
- Mosquitoes and other pests trapped in the setae will quickly desiccate
- Easy reuse of setae by shaking
- Long-lasting, non-toxic (no insecticide) alternative to insect control
Licensing Contact: