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Republic Polytechnic
Health and Wellness

Sunlight-Activated Larvicides for Effective Mosquito Vector Control

A novel eco-friendly solution has been developed to destroy Aedes mosquito larvae without the emergence of resistance on continuous use. It is harmless to other aquatic animals and cheaper than existing solutions available.

Two microscopic Aedes larvae showing Ecoshine effect, arrow between, circled guts.

Technology overview

The global incidence of mosquito-borne diseases has grown dramatically in the last decade. A novel sunlight-activated larvicide has been developed from a plant source that is lethal and effective against Aedes mosquito larvae while remaining non-toxic to other non-translucent aquatic organisms and the environment. Sunlight generates free radicals that are highly lethal and effective in killing larvae.

This larvicide could be a new eco-friendly solution in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue and Zika. It provides a new avenue for the control of the mosquito vector population by targeting the mosquito larvae before they become adult mosquitoes.

Technology features

  • The larvicide is derived from a food-grade plant source and is environmentally friendly.

  • Modified by chemical synthesis to enhance its stability in the environment.

  • Effectively kills mosquito larvae in low concentrations; demonstrated through an NEA-approved simulated field trial.

  • The larvicide is activated by sunlight but also demonstrates effective larvicidal activity on less sunny or cloudy days.

Potential applications

  • Mosquito vector control programme.

  • This larvicide can be applied directly to mosquito breeding sites.

  • Local pesticide manufacturers and distributors who prefer 'green' larvicide, derived from a natural source.

Benefits

  • Green and environmentally friendly.

  • Kills almost 100% of Aedes larvae.

  • Lethal to mosquito larvae at a low concentration, thus requiring very small dosages to be effective.

  • Harmless to non-translucent organisms, and thus safe for other aquatic animals to ingest.

  • Reduce the use of chemical pesticides and the frequency of fogging.

Commercialisation

This technology is available for licensing and technology transfer.

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