197 - Evaluating Evergreen 5-25 and Fyfanon for Culicodes control

Abstract: With the recent increase in Oropuche virus cases, the American Mosquito Control Association began exploring how existing mosquito control practices can be adapted for Culicoides management. Fort Bend County Environmental Health’s study aimed to test the efficacy of two ready-to-use mosquito adulticides for their potential use in Culicoides control. We modified standard trapping and field cage test protocols to accommodate this smaller and more delicate insect. Innovations included 3D printing custom test cages and collection containers, and mounting a variable-flow London Fog 9-10 sprayer on a Kawasaki Mule UTV to better target cryptic Culicoides habitats.

Two insecticides were evaluated: Fyfanon ULV (FMC; 96.5% malathion) and Evergreen ULV 5-25 (MGK; 5% pyrethrins, 25% piperonyl butoxide), each applied at 8 fl oz/min. Traps were placed the day before spray tests and collected the morning of. Live Culicoides were provided a 10% sugar solution immediately upon being brought in from the field. Culicoides were aspirated using a custom-built mouth aspirator constructed from PVC tubing, ultra-fine mesh, and a straw tip. Under controlled laboratory conditions (75°F, 65% RH), Culicoides survived for at least 24 hours post-capture.

Although data collection has been limited by weather and the challenges of handling such small insects, initial results indicate that both insecticides show some effectiveness against Culicoides. Additional trials are needed to strengthen results, but these early trials highlight the feasibility of adapting mosquito control methods for Culicoides testing. Our ongoing work demonstrates how creative, flexible approaches can advance efforts toward effective Culicoides management and improved vector control preparedness.