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Biting Midges-Current Knowledge and Research Needs Symposium II

Biting Midges-Current Knowledge and Research Needs Symposium II

Biting Midges-Current Knowledge and Research Needs Symposium II

238 - Small sprays for smaller vectors: Effects of ultra low volume sprays on Culicoides populations in Lake County CA

Thursday, March 26, 2026
12:00 PM - 12:15 PM PDT
Location: B119
Abstract: The Culicoides biting midge is a small biting fly, several species of which are implicated in vectoring parasites and viruses of human and animal importance. There are approximately 60 species documented in California, including C. sonorensis, which is known to transmit bluetongue virus (BTV) and epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV). Despite this, control strategies are understudied. Culicoides have been shown to be susceptible to permethrin in the lab, and ultra low volume (ULV) sprays using permethrin as their active ingredient have been shown to be effective in semi-field cage trials. While a common tool for some vector control districts, their efficacy in biting midge control has not been evaluated in field settings. This study evaluated the effects of ULV sprays on Culicoides populations across Lake County, California. Routine sprays were performed at three sites weekly from July to October 2025, and midges were collected using miniature CDC light traps twice each week (pre-spray and post-spray) and identified to species. Targeted sprays were also performed at three sites at dawn to test the effect of ULV sprays during higher rates of adult midge activity. Just as with the routine sprays, midges were collected twice weekly using miniature CDC light traps and identified to species. Effects of ULV sprays on Culicoides abundance at different times compared to control sites are presented, as well as data on seasonal abundance of Lake County’s biting midge species. This study provides valuable data and practical considerations for use of ULV sprays as control for Culicoides in California.