University of New Mexico scientists are innovating a non-toxic mosquito control approach, taking a bite out of the mosquito population.

You have read my blogs about many types of mosquito control.  From traditional personal mosquito sprays and repellents, which we use on our skin while hiking, going to the beach, or taking the kids to the park – to at-home mosquito barrier protection and all-natural mosquito control solutions.  This new non-toxic mosquito control approach is much different and very interesting!

Much like the information in my recent blog about mosquito control in Florida, New Mexico scientists are finding ways to eradicate mosquito larvae.

Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which are responsible for transmitting dengue, chikunguya and Zika, are the targets of this new and seemingly effective method of mosquito population control.  Much like other methods of all-natural mosquito sprays, this new method utilizes orange oil, a natural essential oil.  Plants use these essential oils to protect themselves from predators, so they can grow and thrive.  They are effective mosquito repellents, but they are being utilized in a very different way in New Mexico.

Baker’s yeast and orange oil, an unusual mosquito eradication solution.

Scientists are injecting essential orange oil into the cells of yeast, which kills the yeast, but leaves tiny droplets of oil inside the cells.  Orange oil residue is cleansed from the exterior of the yeast cells, and those cells are then dried into a powder.  Later on, this powder is re-hydrated with water to make a proprietary mixture that can be sprayed into mosquito habitats – namely, standing water, like ponds.  Mosquito larvae will then feast on the yeast, which contains the fungal cells that contain the essential orange oil droplets.  The Aedes aegypti mosquitoes die from ingesting those fungal cells, thereby halting their life cycle into adult disease vectors.

Central Mass mosquito control for your home and family

Here in Central Mass, there are tried and true mosquito control solutions for your home.  EPA-registered mosquito barrier sprays are effective after application for up to three weeks.  All-natural, non-toxic mosquito control barrier sprays will repel mosquitoes for about two weeks.  It is essential that you employ an effective professional mosquito control solution at your Central Mass home.  Your family’s health could depend on it!

Also read: What is the difference between insecticide and repellent?